Wide-ranging works will deliver better journeys

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Road works along State Highway 3 this summer will help ensure motorists travelling between Waikato and Taranaki will soon experience safer, more enjoyable journeys.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Acting Waikato Systems Manager Rob Campbell says as the Transport Agency focuses on improving the roads, increasing safety and making people’s journeys more enjoyable, there are a number of sites on SH3 with traffic management in place.

“Warmer spring and summer months are the best time for resurfacing as daylight hours are longer and the warm temperatures and dry air help the new seal stick to the road surface.

“While we try to keep inconveniences and delays from road works to a minimum, we urge motorists to be patient and recommend they allow extra time for journeys between Waikato and Taranaki, and in other regions as well.”

The Awakino Tunnel Bypass is currently the main construction site on State Highways 3. This 2.3km project involves building two bridges to take traffic away from the single-lane tunnel and includes a northbound passing lane.

Most of the bypass work is happening away from the main highway, so overall disruption is expected to be at a minimum through to the scheduled completion date of mid-2021. Retaining walls are currently being built at either end of the site, with traffic down to one lane and controlled by lights.

Other SH3 works currently underway include:

  • Passing lane construction at Ladies Mile, near Awakino. Traffic management is expected to be in place until around April 2020.
  • Retaining wall construction at Mangaotaki and the Awakino Gorge. Both are scheduled to be finished before Christmas.
  • Resealing and repair works in the Awakino Gorge. These works should be completed before Christmas.
  • Resealing works at various sites between Mokau and New Plymouth throughout the summer.

Mr Campbell encouraged motorists to stick to the signposted speed limits and be patient when driving through road works sites this summer.

“We want to keep everyone safe when driving through road work sites, and that includes our road workers.

“The Transport Agency thanks the public for their patience while we carry out this important work.”

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