The NZ Transport Agency is inviting local communities to find out more about a project to find ways to help improve road safety, reduce crashes and ease congestion on State Highway 3 between Waitara and Bell Block.
The Transport Agency’s Central North Island Regional Relationships Director, Parekawhia McLean, says this section of State Highway 3 has a very poor safety record, and also has been experiencing increased traffic, which is causing delays.
“In the five years between 2010 and 2014, there have been 25 crashes causing deaths and serious injuries. The Transport Agency sees it as a priority to make this route safer,” Ms McLean said.
“By making improvements to the roads and roadsides, we will help the people who live and work in the area as well as others who rely on it for wider business or travel purposes. Members of the local community know these roads well and we are interested to hear their ideas about what they think could be improved along this route, and help us create solutions that will work best for everyone.”
Anticipated residential, airport and business growth in the area is also expected to increase travel demand which will create more congestion for drivers trying to get on the highway.
The Transport Agency will host two community open days in March and invites everyone to come and hear more about the project, and provide their input and ideas. For people who can’t make it to the open days, more details on the project and how to have your say is available on www.nzta.govt.nz/w2bb(external link) or by emailing w2bb@nzta.govt.nz
The safety investigation into State Highway 3 between Waitara to Bell Block is part of the $600 million nationwide road safety programme announced by Transport Minister Simon Bridges in June 2016.
State Highway 3: Waitara to Bell Block community open days
