Residents on the Kāpiti Coast can now look forward to the end of roadwork projects on old State Highway 1 from Mackays to Peka Peka (M2PP).
These works, which began after the opening of the M2PP Expressway in February 2017, are largely complete.
Mackays to Peka Peka improvement zones
They were required to ensure the 13.5km section of old State Highway 1 – between Poplar Avenue and Peka Peka Link Road – was made fit for purpose as a local road, given it was no longer used as a state highway once the expressway became operational.
Project Manager, Jacob Laird, says around $23m has been spent on the works.
“The improvements and upgrades carried out have included road resurfacing and line marking; installing new traffic lights, traffic islands, crossings and pedestrian refuges; planting and landscaping; concreting kerbs and footpaths; and signage upgrades.”
“These make the local road more accessible and mean it remains a viable alternative route if the expressway is closed. There are better connections for communities and key regional areas, and the local network is much safer for the public.”
Contractors still have some minor repairs to complete. This is usual for construction projects, and the work isn’t expected to affect road users.
Mr Laird says this has been one of the most complex revocation projects Waka Kotahi has been involved in.
“This is due to the location of this section of old State Highway 1 which goes through towns and rural areas, as well as the number of council requirements.”
“It’s great to have the physical works pretty much completed. It means there’s now minimal disruption for those travelling in the area. We know the project has created some frustration for locals, but the end result means they have a much better road environment.”
The next step is to officially transfer ownership and responsibility for the road from Waka Kotahi to Kāpiti Coast District Council. The formal name for this process is ‘revocation’, which will be completed over the next few months.
More information about the project can be found on the Waka Kotahi website.
