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28 November 2018
We are now able to update the public on the re-evaluation process for the long-term improvements project for Cambridge to Piarere.
The work to align the project with the new priorities set out in the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport (GPS) is now complete. The Government has a new vision for our land transport system focusing on safety, access, the environment and value for money.
The NZ Transport Agency board has now endorsed the general approach for future plans for this project. The plans include delivering more short-term safety improvements and safer access on the existing state highway while continuing to work on the best solution for a new long-term route.
Outcome of the re-evaluation
The key deliverable for the SH1 corridor – between where the Cambridge section of the Waikato Expressway ends and the SH29 intersection at Piarere – is to improve safety for through traffic and for people coming and going from side roads.
The Transport Agency already has safety works under way on this stretch of highway, which include general widening to accommodate a wide centre line, roadside barriers, side-road intersection improvements, and installing speed-activated warning signs at the SH1/29 intersection.
Additional improvements are likely to include constructing central median barriers and further side barriers and providing safer access to the communities living along this section and to the local roads. These improvements will reduce the number of serious crashes and the impact of crashes if they do occur.
The long-term strategic route to extend the Waikato Expressway to Piarere will be confirmed through the completion of the business case, which is well under way. This will also include the best solution and location for the intersection upgrade at SH1/29, and once confirmed, the upgrade can get under way, subject to funding.
The Transport Agency will continue to monitor the route to determine when construction of the new route is required.
Next steps
As outlined above we plan to boost the current safety improvements work and plan for medium and longer-term works. Completing the business case for the long-term route will help us confirm what is needed and when.
If you are a property owner, we will be in touch shortly.
In December, once the re-evaluations for all 12 corridors across the country are complete, we will consider in more detail the plans and timing for these projects including available funding.
We appreciate your patience while we have carried out this important work and recognise the frustration that uncertainty can bring. We have been working as quickly as we can to align with new government priorities and provide the best outcomes and value for money for communities now and in the future.
Details about the re-evaluation process and projects can be found at www.nzta.govt.nz/project-re-evaluations
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