“Over time, erosion has exposed piles beneath the southern side of the bridge, and to resolve this we need to remove a section of road and install sheet piles,” he said.
“We want to reassure local residents and business owners that they will be able to access their properties at all times. There will also be access for pedestrians and cyclists through the site,” Brady said.
SH5 is a busy urban road within Rotorua, and a key route for “High Productivity Motor Vehicles” (HPMV) and heavy haulage vehicles.
“Our rationale for closing the road is that it substantially reduces the time our crews are required to be on site, minimising the overall disruption.”
He said fully closing the road meant the work could be done in the quickest time and over school holidays.
“Partial closure to keep traffic moving through the site would take much longer, up to four months, and would result in traffic congestion and delays for the duration of the works.
He said it was working with Rotorua Lakes Council and contractor Fulton Hogan on the project.
“We will need weather, machinery and ground conditions to all co-operate, however, we have a comprehensive programme in place and are confident we’ll be able to achieve the timeframe,” Brady said.
The 21m Utuhina Stream bridge was constructed in 1955 and carries approximately 25,000 vehicles per day.
“This work is going to cause disruption to people’s daily travel around Rotorua. We urge all motorists to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journey.
“Most importantly, we thank you for your patience while this work is carried out,” Brady said.
Detour details:
The majority of vehicles will be able to follow the local detours.
- All light vehicles to detour via Malfroy Rd, Ford Rd and Sunset Rd
- Heavy vehicles and CBD traffic to detour via Lake Rd and Ranolf St
- HPMV vehicles will need to use SH1, and either SH5 or SH30.
- Source: Waka Kotahi
