Safety improvements are planned to start next week on State Highway 5 in Rotorua.

NZTA’s Bay of Plenty Transport Systems Manager Rob Campbell says we are installing two right-turning bays on the state highway at the intersections with Maraeroa Road and Oturoa Road.

“These turning bays will address ongoing safety concerns at the intersections by removing turning traffic from the through lane.

“We are widening State Highway 5 to make room for the turning bays which will allow turning vehicles to wait in the bay until it’s safe to make a right turn, without holding up vehicles going straight through,” says Mr Campbell.

Work is due to begin Monday 4 March, with the project expected to be completed in May 2019.

In the past five years there have been three fatal or serious crashes within 100m of the intersections, and a further two minor and five non-injury crashes.

Speed restrictions and stop/go traffic management will be in place during the works however, with the majority of work being completed on the road shoulder, delays are expected to be minor.

The NZ Transport Agency would like to thank motorists for their patience during this time.
Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey this summer. Keep up to date with:
• Traffic updates: nzta.govt.nz/traffic
• Facebook: facebook.com/NZTAWaikatoBoP
• Twitter: twitter.com/NZTAwaibop
• Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz
• Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)

© Scoop Media