NZTA seeking local views on improvements to SH29

The NZ Transport Agency’s (NZTA) plans to improve State Highway 29 near Tauriko have reached an important milestone.

An Open Day to discuss the project will be held on Thursday 28 October from 3.30 to 7.00pm at the Performing Arts Room, Tauriko School SH29, Tauriko.

The NZTA’s State Highway Manager, Rod James says State Highway 29 is the primary freight route linking the Port of Tauranga with the Waikato and this project is an important step in improving the most challenging section of this route.

“Three possible options have been identified to improve the safety and efficiency of SH29 between Omanawa Road in the south to the Route K junction in the north. They include upgrading the existing route, or building a new road either to the north or south of the current highway. The open day is an opportunity for people to find out about the options, talk to our team and give us their thoughts.

“Before funding can be considered for future stages (detailed design of preferred option and then construction), an analysis of each option must be carried out. Engineering work sufficient to make accurate cost estimates as well as talking to potentially affected landowners and communities are important parts of that process.

“While we understand that investigations involving several options can be unsettling for people, it’s a vital part of the process and we’ll be working hard to complete this stage as quickly, efficiently and transparently as possible,” says Mr James.

The investigation phase:
• undertakes engineering studies including determining geotechnical conditions and alignment restrictions; estimating traffic volumes each option would generate; and estimating costs
• considers the cost, and any social, cultural, environmental and property effects
• consults affected and interested people
• selects the most appropriate solution.

ENDS

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