The NZ Transport Agency is urging drivers to allow extra time for their journeys along Mana Esplanade, with a major upgrade underway of the road surface of State Highway 1.
The Transport Agency said significant delays were observed yesterday when work began, and some enhancements to traffic management have already been put in place to improve traffic flow. However, delays are still likely due to the challenging nature of carrying out roadworks on such a busy highway. To help reduce delays, work is only happening outside of rush hour.
“While we won’t be doing any roadworks during the morning and early evening commuter peaks, the reality is that most motorists will experience some delays,” says Wellington Network Performance Manager Mark Owen.
Mr Owen says more than 30,000 vehicles use the Mana Esplanade every day, which creates a lot of wear and tear. Roadworks also have a much greater impact on travel times when carried out on busy roads.
“Roads, like your shoes, wear out after a while, and every few years we need to get the road back in top nick again. This means roadworks will be in place over the next few weeks, and we ask that motorists plan their trips with the roadworks in mind.
“While we are doing our best to minimise delays, we can't stop them completely, so we’re asking motorists to factor in extra time or consider taking other forms of transport such as the train.
“We know roadworks can be frustrating, and we thank the public for being so understanding while we get this important work done.”
Additional note to advise that the work is scheduled to be completed by mid-July
For more information please visit www.tfw.govt.nz(external link) or follow @nztawgtn on Twitter.
