News & Media Releases

Tauranga Harbour Bridge Lanes to be Realigned Next Week

1 April 2009

Traffic lanes on the existing Harbour Bridge will be realigned next week to enable piling to be carried out to widen the bridge.

The works are part of the NZ Transport Agency’s Harbour Link project.

The realignment on the Tauranga end of the bridge will move traffic closer to the northern side of the bridge by reducing both lane and shoulder widths in both directions.  Pedestrians and cyclists will be diverted around the work zone from the existing raised footpath using purpose-built ramps to and from the road level on to a protected shared-use path.

A 10-metre section of footpath will then be removed to enable a pile to be constructed for a new off-ramp from the existing bridge, which will provide future access to Dive Crescent and Mirrielees Rd.

The installation of the realignment will be carried out over three nights between 8pm and 6am from Monday April 6 until Wednesday April 8 under stop/go traffic control.  Some travel delays are expected on the bridge during this time and motorists may wish to take an alternative route.

NZ Transport Agency’s Project Manager Kevin Reid said a decision to realign traffic lanes is not one taken lightly, and it is intended to keep the public safe from potential construction hazards.

“The publics’ ongoing cooperation with traffic management around the site is very much appreciated” he said.

The diversion is expected to be in place until later in the year when the new Harbour Bridge is opened to traffic and the existing bridge closed for maintenance.

A roadside information sign will be used to notify motorists in advance of the exact timing of the works.

For more information please contact:

Julie Hannam
Regional Communications Advisor
NZ Transport Agency
T       07 903 5146
M      027 294 2649
julie.hannam@nzta.govt.nz

www.nzta.govt.nz

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