The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) says motorists can expect some delays next week on the Waitaki Bridges on State Highway 82 near Kurow to allow routine maintenance work to be carried out.
The work is part of an on-going general maintenance programme for the bridges that will see them closed to all traffic including pedestrians, on Tuesday 17th May and Wednesday the 18th May between 9.00am and 5.00pm. Both bridges will open to all traffic for 10 minutes on the hour every hour during these times. Access for emergency services will be provided at all times.
NZTA Regional Highways Manager Colin Knaggs says regular inspections of these bridges are carried out, with next weeks work involving tightening clamps and cross braces on their decks. This job was last carried out two or three years ago.
A truck with a specially adapted articulated arm and a safety cage will be parked on the bridges with the arms able to swing over the sides of the bridge and then under the deck he said.
Mr Knaggs said the NZTA realises this essential work will inconvenience bridge users and appreciates their patience over this period.
