Apologies ahead of peak hour mayhem

Heavy recent rain has temporarily put off the latest hazard for the city's northern commuters, the Wairere Drive-River Rd roundabout.

Major traffic snarls are expected when work begins on the new phase of the Hamilton Ring Road project, the roundabout at the eastern end of Pukete Bridge. It is one of the city's busiest junctions with 35,000 vehicle movements a day.

Major changes are expected to impact all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

Hamilton City Council City development manager Andrew Parsons says work on the intersection is expected to take five months,

Changes include installation of traffic lights, widening of lanes and construction of crossings and paths for pedestrians and cyclists.

The work is confined, so there will be unavoidable lane closures, but contractor Downer will work to minimise disruptions," says Mr Parsons.

Work is likely to take about five months. To relieve congestion, Mr Parsons urges motorists use alternative routes, car pool, use buses, cycle or walk and stagger journey times to avoid peak hour. He also suggests working from home where possible.

"We're confident motorists will see considerable benefit once this is completed, particularly on Wairere Drive, a vital leg of the Ring Road and major arterial route," he says.

Updates are available at www.hamilton.co.nz.