The NZTA has started physical works strengthening Mohaka Bridge on the Napier/Taupo Road, where single lane restrictions are in place.
The work involves carrying out welding on the steel supports and reinforcing the supports with steel plates.
“We’ll have contractors working underneath the bridge, and until this work is finished the bridge will remain reduced to one lane to reduce loading on the steel supports, and to enable contractors to carry out the work underneath without being hampered by movement as traffic passes over the bridge.”
“We thank motorists for their patience while we carry out this important work.”
Acting State Highways Manager Gordon Hart says the bridge remains safe and structurally sound, but that the NZTA carried out regular inspections of the 70 year old bridge and precautionary strengthening work was needed from time to time to protect the bridge from wear and tear.
“The NZTA also carried out a seismic retrofit of the bridge a number of years ago to improve the bridge’s resilience to earthquakes, and this strengthening work will help complement that upgrade”.
Temporary signals have been installed to manage traffic flows while the work is carried out. The work is expected to be completed by the end of April but the single lane restrictions are expected to be removed in early April.
