News & Media Releases
SH1 safety improvements will save lives
27 February 2004
A $5.75 million safety makeover for SH1 in the north Waikato was given the green light today.
Transit New Zealand today welcomed news of funding approval for the Longswamp to Rangiriri safety improvements, announced by funding agency Transfund New Zealand.
Transit Regional Manager Colin Knaggs said the project included:
- installing a 6.5km long wire rope barrier to separate traffic flows and prevent head-on crashes
- safety upgrades for intersections between Rangiriri Road and the Hampton Downs Interchange.
“Although this section of highway provides a high standard of alignment, the number of fatal crashes here is almost twice the national average,” Mr Knaggs said. “These are typically head-on crashes where one vehicle crosses the centre line. The wire rope barrier will prevent these accidents and reduce the rate of fatalities and serious injuries. This project allows timely action to be taken to address these important safety concerns.”
The long-term plan for this section of highway is construction of a four-lane expressway and this will be progressed when funds are available. This section of highway is typically three lanes and lies between two sections of completed four-lane expressway. The three-lane configuration provides regular overtaking opportunities for traffic travelling north and south.
Road widening is required to create a central median that separates the traffic flows and provides room for the wire rope barrier.
Safety improvements will be carried out at the following intersections: Rangiriri Road, Glen Murray Road, Te Kauwhata Road, Plantation Road, Wayside Road, Glen Murray Road and Te Wheoro Road.
Construction is expected to begin in April this year, and be completed by early 2005.
NEWS MEDIA:
For further information, contact:
Colin Knaggs
(07) 957 1610
All rights reserved. Copyright © 2006.