The NZ Transport Agency and Whangarei District Council are starting work on six construction projects over the next four years on SH1 in Whangarei to manage growing traffic, improve safety and make travelling around the area easier for local residents, business and visitors.
The NZ Transport Agency and Whangarei District Council are starting work on six construction projects over the next four years on SH1 in Whangarei to manage growing traffic, improve safety and make travelling around the area easier for local residents, business and visitors.
The first improvement to get underway is the second stage of the Kamo Bypass. It will connect to the existing bypass (stage one was completed in 2005) to create a high quality alternative to Kamo Road.
“The bypass will help to move traffic away from the city centre and surrounding residential areas currently experiencing congestion. It will also provide a high quality route north for visitors to the city” says NZTA’s State Highways Manager for Auckland and Northland Tommy Parker.
This bypass will run from Kamo Road roundabout, through a section of Whangarei golf course and in between the railway line and Jack Street to connect with the existing SH1 link at Western Hills Drive.
Detailed designs will be developed this year. Construction is planned to start in 2010 and take around two years to complete.
The $13.3M construction costs are being funded by NZTA and Whangarei District Council. The estimated cost of the overall project is $23M including property.
“The project will be of great economic benefit and will protect jobs during the recession. The Council looks forward to a continuing partnership with NZTA which identifies the transportation priorities which will bring maximum return for taxpayers’ and ratepayers’ spending” says Whangarei District Council Mayor Stan Semenoff.
Walking and cycling facilities will also be created beside SH1 including a shared space underpass for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists to improve connections to local roads and communities. Signalised pedestrian crossings and a new rail crossing are also planned.
Communication with local residents and the community is underway and an information evening will be held on Tuesday 28 July at Kamo Bowling Club, 13A Three Mile Bush Road from 5.30pm - 7pm to give the public the opportunity to ask questions and give their views.
For more information please contact:
Ewart Barnsley
Auckland Media Manager
NZ Transport Agency
T 64 9 368 2142
M 027 213 7616
E Ewart.barnsley@nzta.govt.nz
