Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises works to help strengthen the Kaituna River bank have started on a small section of Te Puke Highway.
Located near the intersection of Te Puke Highway and Pah Road, the purpose of the works is to create a safer, more resilient road and to strengthen the river bank opposite Tuhourangi Marae, in the rohe of local iwi, Tapuika.
Using a combination of soil anchors and sheetpiles, the 50 metre area will be reinforced to minimise the impact of ongoing erosion on the Marae and surrounding areas. A total of 54 anchors and 54 sheetpiles will be used to create extra stability. The 15 metre long anchors are placed underneath the road and the 20 metre long sheetpiles will stand vertically, back from the river’s edge.
The road will remain open for the duration of works with a 50km/h temporary speed limit in place for the safety of motorists and road workers.
The project is a collaboration between Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and mana whenua of the area, Tapuika.
Initial works involve site preparation and traffic management, as well as temporary widening of the road outside the Marae, followed by the creation of a platform along the river back below the road.
Over summer, anchors will be installed and tested, followed by the installation of sheetpiles. While Waka Kotahi endeavours to minimise any disturbance to local residents, this work may generate some noise and vibration. Upon completion of works, the area will be revegetated in association with local iwi.
The works are scheduled to be completed by late-March 2021.
Waka Kotahi thanks motorists for their patience.
For up to date information on road works, traffic, detours and delays, motorists are encouraged to visit the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)
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