The NZ Transport Agency is advising the public that it will be working on the State Highway 53 Waihenga Bridge over the next month to help keep the bridge structurally resilient.
Regional Performance Manager Mark Owen says crews will be working on the embankment and piers from 7.30am to 6pm during weekdays. Because the work is happening underneath the bridge, it is not expected to cause disruption to traffic.
The area surrounding the bridge will be closed to the public while the work is underway but river users will have access to the river during weekends and public holidays.
The work is being coordinated with Greater Wellington Regional Council who are carrying out river maintenance works on the adjacent stretch of the river.
Mr Owen says the Waihenga Bridge is a critical part of the highway network in the Wairarapa.
“We undertake regular assessments of the bridge as part of our management of the state highway network to ensure the bridge remains in tip top condition. “
He says the work involves adding extra protection to the piers to protect against erosion from water and debris. The work will help to extend the life of the bridge and keep it structurally sound.
He says the Transport Agency thank the public for their understanding, and that the work has been scheduled to cause the least disruption for people wanting to access the river.
“We recognise that the public enjoy access to the river, and we’ve kept this in mind by stopping work in weekends and public holidays.”
For more information please contact:
Anthony Frith
Media Manager – Central
T: 04 894 5251
M: 027 213 7617
E: anthony.frith@nzta.govt.nz
The NZ Transport Agency works to create transport solutions for all New Zealanders - from helping new drivers earn their licences, to leading safety campaigns to investing in public transport, state highways and local roads.
