Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
The new State Highway 1 Whirokino Trestle and Manawatū River Bridge between Levin and Foxton is now open to traffic.
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Regional Transport Systems Manager Ross l’Anson says traffic was switched from the old alignment onto the new bridges this morning.
“It’s really exciting to see this vital link for the lower North Island now open. Improving this region’s resilience has been a key priority, and this project will offer a stronger, safer route for freight and travellers.
“We would like to thank the community for their patience while this project has been under construction.
“This has been a huge project for the Horowhenua and Manawatū. We know how eager the community has been to see it open, and it’ll be great to see people now getting to use it.”
Motorists should be aware that traffic management and reduced speed limits will remain in place while final construction activities are underway, including ‘tie-in’ works.
“We’re asking drivers to keep to the posted speed limits and take care around the site while our team puts the final touches to the road,” says Mr l’Anson.
While tie-ins are completed, vehicles will be directed across the new bridges, which will include driving on uneven and unsealed surfaces at times.
Southbound traffic wanting to use Whirokino or Matakarapa Roads will need to follow the posted detour which will loop them back over the old Manawatū River Bridge.
Construction of the tie-ins at each end is expected to take approximately eight weeks to complete.
For more on the Whirokino Trestle and Manawatū River Bridge see: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/whirokino-trestle-and-manawatu-river-bridge/
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