NZ Transport Agency‘s project team has begun geotechnical investigations along the proposed corridor of the replacement route. Project manager Lonnie Dalzell says drill rigs are used to take ground core samples that provide key information, including confirmation of assumptions made during early assessments or the type of materials below the surface in key design areas such cut areas or structure locations.

Helicopters are used to transport drill rigs to areas not accessible by vehicle. NZTA says it would like to thank property owners for providing access to their land to enable these investigations to happen. The investigations are a vital part in determining the exact designation for the new road and support the development of an application for the relevant approvals under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA).

NZTA will be seeking feedback from stakeholders and the general public on the preferred option and design refinements prior to lodging any applications for RMA approvals. At this stage, it is envisaged that the NZTA would be prepared to lodge the relevant applications before the end of 2018.

Ashhurst Community Meeting

NZTA invites Ashhurst residents to a public meeting to discuss additional measures to mitigate traffic issues in the town.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday, 22 May 2018, at 7.30pm at the Village Valley Centre in Ashhurst.

Roadworks and mitigation measures

The Saddle Road upgrade project is continuing this year as NZTA complete the road works at the summit and various major repairs along the road. Work will also continue on the extensive maintenance programme on both the Saddle Road and Pahiatua Track.

NZTA is close to starting the realignments works near Woodville, which will improve the safety and efficiency of the intersections and rural roads around Woodville. There will be some delays as they progress the two corner realignments, but will endeavour to keep any disruptions to a minimum.

NZTA is looking to make improvements to the traffic calming measures on the streets that run between Cambridge and Salisbury Streets. The speed cushions are not working as effectively hoped, so NZTA is looking to make more substantial improvements.

An update on the proposed temporary bypass of Ashhurst will be provided at the public meeting next Tuesday.