The NZ Transport Agency has announced that the preferred corridor for the new 24.2 kilometre Ōtaki to north of Levin road is one that runs closest to State Highway 1 and, in the northern section, alongside State Highway 57.
The preferred corridor is a combination of two options that received support during community engagement – S6 in the south and N4 in the north.
The Transport Agency’s Director of Regional Relationships Emma Speight says the preferred corridor was selected following engagement with the community and takes into account, among a number of other factors, the views of people who live, work and travel in the area.
“We also carried out additional ecological, heritage, social, noise, and vibration assessments following questions raised by the community, and these have helped shape our way forward,” Ms Speight says.
“The selected corridor will provide a shorter route than other options, and is more accessible to urban areas. Of all the routes considered, this one is expected to shift the most traffic off the existing SH1.
“We greatly appreciate people’s patience as we’ve worked through this process and recognise the frustration that the uncertainty has caused.
“We’ve been in touch with all of the property owners that were potentially affected by the range of shortlisted corridor options, to inform them of the decision.
“Subject to funding approval, we’ll be working with property owners, stakeholders and the community throughout 2019 and early 2020 as we further investigate and progress design of the road, within the preferred corridor.
“Improved public transport for the region will also be investigated, which could include rail connections, park and ride facilities, and bus service improvements.”
Work is also continuing on short and medium term safety improvements on the state highway network through Horowhenua and Kāpiti.
“These safety improvements will initially focus on speed management, road marking, signs, and enforcement, followed by infrastructure measures such as barriers,” Ms Speight says.
“Our priority is to ensure we have a safer transport network free of death and injury. The Ōtaki to north of Levin project will enhance the safety and resilience of the transport network, improving access to Levin while also ensuring value for money.”
For more information on the O2NL project, visit www.nzta.govt.nz/o2nl
Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey this summer. Keep up to date with:
