SH3 Napier Road safety improvements

Palmerston North is experiencing sustained growth in residential and commercial activity, with the area to the east of the city centre, Kelvin Grove, being one of the fastest growing areas. As a result, there are increasing issues related to safety on SH3 Napier Road, and access between suburban and commercial areas locally to other areas in Palmerston North.

The intersections along this stretch of road have a poor safety record. Between 2011-2020, there were three people killed and 80 people injured in crashes on this road. 

Community members have also shared their concerns about being able to use the road safely.

In early 2022, during consultation on the proposed new safer speed limits, we published the draft concept design for safety improvements to give the community the opportunity to provide their feedback.

Engagement summary [PDF, 459 KB]

Key features of the proposed infrastructure improvements include:

• traffic signals at the SH3 Napier Road/Roberts Line intersection.
• improved walking and cycling facilities along SH3 between Keith Street and Roberts Line.
• pedestrian refuge islands to help cross SH3.
• a widened centreline from Roberts Line to Stoney Creek Road to create more space between people travelling in opposite directions, reducing the likelihood of centreline crashes in this area.
• stormwater facilities to better capture and treat water running off the road.

Completion of detailed design and the construction of the improvements has not been included as an activity in the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP). Progression of this project will be subject to funding approval in a future NLTP cycle.

Manawatū-Whanganui regional summary – NLTP 2024-27 [PDF, 262 KB]