Today marks the formal completion of the Waipukurau Overbridge Realignment on SH2, which will improve safety and make journeys easier just north of Waipukurau township.
Motorists have been enjoying the benefits of the new alignment for some time while the finishing touches were put on the project, and earlier today the NZ Transport Agency’s Regional State Highway Manager Mark Kinvig joined Tukituki MP Craig Foss, Wairarapa MP John Hayes, Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor Trish Giddens and Regional Transport Committee Chair Allan Dick in a tree planting ceremony to commemorate the formal completion of the project.
The $4.6m project project involves the construction of a new corrugated metal rail tunnel, the easing of curves over the 1.85km stretch of highway, new road approaches and a cycleway.
”We’re really thrilled to have this important safety project completed and we’d like to thank the community and road users for being so supportive.” says NZTA Regional Director Central Region Jenny Chetwynd.
“This project provides a shorter, safer route that eliminates a well-known black spot that has seen a number of serious crashes over the last few years.
“It’ll also be quieter, with less engine and road noise thanks to a smoother seal and reduced need for sudden braking.”
Ms Chetwynd says the project will also help contribute to economic productivity for Central Hawke’s Bay and neighbouring regions.
“State Highway 2 is a crucial economic lifeline, and this improved route will make journeys easier for tourists, freight, and the thousands of other motorists who rely on this route.”.
Ms Chetwynd thanked design consultants Opus International Consultants and local contractors Infracon and Russell Roads for their hard work over the last two years in getting the project to its completed state.
Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor, Trish Giddens, said the community is absolutely thrilled with the completion of the new overbridge and the reshaping of this stretch of road.
“The council and the community appreciate how well the NZTA and the local contractors have managed the project. The end result is a wonderful improvement and a huge relief for those who have lost loved ones on this previous accident black spot.“
