Work has begun on a $1.4 million shared pathway for cyclists and pedestrians, alongside Kahikatea Drive and Greenwood Street in Hamilton.
The 3km long, 3m-wide path will run from Killarney Road to Ohaupo Road alongside State Highway 1.
The NZ Transport Agency’s Waikato highway manager, Kaye Clark says the project is scheduled to be finished by the end of April 2015.
“The Transport Agency is focused on providing integrated transport solutions that offer safe travel options whether people choose to drive, ride a bike or walk,” Ms Clark says.
“This shared pathway will encourage more people to cycle and walk to their destinations, which in turn will help alleviate congestion on our roads, improving travel time for motorists.
“We work in close partnership with Hamilton City Council because we understand that both our networks need to work together seamlessly to provide the best outcome for all road users and this project demonstrates our joined up approach to transport.
“It is exciting that work has started and it will be great to see the pathway used by walkers and cyclists next year.”
Phil Consedine, City Transportation Manager for Hamilton City Council says the project will improve safety for cyclists along the busy arterial corridor.
“It will also provide an opportunity for those who are currently reluctant to bike on the highway, offering another option for travelling to work or school,” he says.
“The Council is building a similar shared path from the end of Gallagher Drive to link with the Glenview area, for added connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists.”
Ms Clark says Schick Construction has started works at the Killarney Road end of the pathway.
Other projects, such as the Hamilton Ring Road and Waikato Expressway, are designed to make cycling and walking around Hamilton even easier in the future, Ms Clark says.
For more information please contact:
Natalie Dixon
Waikato / Bay of Plenty Media Manager
T: 07 928 7908
M: 021 928 413
E: natalie.dixon@nzta.govt.nz
