The New Zealand Transport Agency is broadening its investigation and consultation to consider alternative interchanges on the Hamilton section of the Waikato Expressway.
Following extensive consultation, the Agency has listened to comments gathered at public open days over the past year and has been working closely with key stakeholders, Hamilton City Council and Waikato District Council.
Waikato Expressway, Principal Project Manager, Richard Young says, whilst the route of the Expressway remains unchanged, an alternative interchange is being considered that could link to Fifth Avenue.
This option could improve traffic flows, provide better connectivity to Hamilton city, through Boundary Road and support future growth on the eastern side Hamilton.
Mr Young says the option could see the interchanges proposed for Greenhill Road and Ruakura Road consolidated into one interchange.
“The Fifth Avenue connection was identified as it may provide a more efficient and cost effective solution and create a better connection between the Waikato Expressway, the Hamilton Ring Road, the eastern side of Hamilton and the central city,” Mr Young says.
Mr Young says the proposal would not alter the designated plans for the interchange between the Hamilton section of the Expressway and Morrinsville Road (SH26); this is likely to remain in its designated form.
“The Waikato Expressway is vital infrastructure for the city and for economic growth in the region. It is important we work closely with our key stakeholders to ensure the Expressway supports the city’s long-term growth plans. The NZTA’s objectives are to provide good, cost effective network solutions to ensure traffic flows efficiently both along the State Highway and local road networks,” Mr Young says.
The new option will be examined in more detail by the NZTA in consultation with key stakeholders.
Open days will be planned for early September to enable public feedback on the options being considered.
