27 August 2009

NZ Transport Agency Napier Regional Office

Big road projects highlight of transport investment for Hawke’s Bay

The progression of the SH2 Matahorua Gorge Realignment and the SH50 Hawke's Bay Expressway Southern Extension highlight a $214 million investment in land transport in Hawke's Bay over the next three years.

Today's announcement of the 2009-12 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) delivers a significant investment in the region's transport activities over the next three years, says NZ Transport Agency Central Regional Director Jenny Chetwynd.

For the first time the NLTP guarantees a dedicated funding package for Hawke’s Bay, the region having been included with the Gisborne region in previous NLTPs.

Work is set to start this October on the SH2 Matahorua Gorge Realignment and the SH50 Hawke's Bay Expressway Southern Extension, two of the largest roading projects the region has seen in years. Both projects have been advanced by the Government's Jobs and Growth stimulus package.

“Hawke's Bay is a fast growing region facing the demands that come with increased commuter traffic, tourism and a thriving port and freight industry,” Ms Chetwynd said.

“The government and the region have sent a clear message that Hawke's Bay needs to invest in a transport system that supports both regional and national economic growth and ensures the safe and reliable movement of people and freight.

“I'm confident the NLTP investment delivers on these important priorities, while also providing many employment opportunities throughout the region.”

The NLTP also provides for construction to begin on Napier City Council's Prebensen Drive four-laning project, which will improve safety and efficiency in the heart of Napier.

The SH2 Hyderabad Overbridge project, which forms the other half of the project, has not been identified as a funding priority at this stage but Ms Chetwynd says the NZTA will work closely with the Napier City Council to ensure the Prebensen Drive project will deliver its benefits as an integrated transport solution.

Further highlights of this NLTP include the sealing of the Taihape to Napier road, investigation and a likely construction start to replace the SH2 Waitangi Washout Bridge, and the upcoming completion of the Dillons Hill Realignment safety project on SH5.

Ms Chetwynd says Central Hawke's Bay also benefits from the NLTP, which plans for the completion of the SH2 Waipukurau Overbridge Realignment as well as construction funding towards the Waipukurau and Waipawa Cycleways network.

State highway and local road maintenance programmes were set to continue at the same high level of service, and public transport services would be maintained at existing levels of funding.

The Hawke’s Bay region 2009/12 NLTP and the full national 2009/12 NLTP are available at www.nzta.govt.nz.

ENDS