Bridges welcomes Katikati bypass decision
Hon Simon Bridges
Minister of Transport
14 March 2017
Bridges welcomes Katikati bypass decision
Transport Minister Simon Bridges has welcomed today’s announcement by the NZ Transport Agency to include a bypass of the Katikati town centre in the State Highway 2 Waihi to Tauranga programme.
Following the
Government’s announcement of the $520 million Waihi to
Tauranga programme in April last year, the Transport Agency
has undertaken further investigations to develop detailed
solutions along the corridor. An assessment of the Katikati
town centre concluded that a bypass should be added to the
programme.
“This is a significant transport investment
for the wider Bay of Plenty region. I’m pleased that the
particular concerns of the Katikati community are being
taken on board as we work to improve safety and increase
economic growth in the region,” Mr Bridges
says.
“While the Transport Agency will need to undertake
further work to finalise the details, they are committed to
removing state highway traffic from the town centre to keep
people safe and improve access to Katikati.
“The
investment being made through this programme will transform
State Highway 2 between Tauranga and Waihi, including
significant safety improvements which will reduce fatal and
serious injury crashes on the route, while at the same time
reducing congestion and supporting strong growth along the
route.
This will make a noticeable difference for motorists and ease freight movement,” Mr Bridges says.
ends