Disruptions are expected amid “substantial works” to resurface and rebuild parts of Transmission Gully this summer.
Mark Owen, NZTA regional manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, said the agency was working with Ventia – the maintenance contractor for the section of State Highway 1 – on resurfacing, drainage, and rebuild works over the summer maintenance period between October and March.
The cost of the work “is still to be quantified,” Owen said.
The planned works come just three-and-a-half years after the $1.25 billion stretch of road opened to the public.
“Substantial works are planned and are part of remaining work not completed by the project’s builder before the project was restructured last year,” Owen said.
Although safe to drive on, the highway was technically not yet complete when it was opened to the public.
Owen said around 20 lane kilometres of road were scheduled to be treated, and told motorists to expect an increase in road maintenance on Transmission Gully over the summer.
NZTA planned to complete resurfacing work north of the Kenepuru Interchange, and road rebuild/drainage/resurfacing work near the Waitangirua Interchange.
Resurfacing work was also scheduled for two sites north of SH58 Interchange – one near the Golf Course and another around the Battle Hill area.
“This will primarily affect the motorway’s southbound lanes. However, some work may be required for northbound lanes,” Owen said.
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He said that “given the volume” of works taking place on Transmission Gully, there would be “some disruption” at times when people travel.
“Our aim is to complete this work quickly and efficiently to keep people and freight moving throughout this project.”
Alongside the resurfacing, the rebuilds would also include drainage improvements to keep water off the highway and reduce the risk of further water damage.
“This work programme will help ensure the road pavement is safe, smooth, and long-lasting. This will help reduce ongoing maintenance costs and disruption along the motorway.”
The unfinished road was subject to legal proceedings in the High Court filed by the builder, which related to incomplete works and the agency’s expectation that these should be completed to the standard in the project’s contract. The matter was settled out of court.
A proposal to increase the road’s speed limit to 110km/h was also being considered, but it would likely occur after the planned work.
Infrastructure NZ chief executive Nick Leggett commented on the planned maintenance, saying that while “sooner than many would have expected”, it was vital for ensuring the motorway continued to perform.
He said there were lessons for future roads of national significance.
“Transparency around the causes of this maintenance will help us to strengthen delivery practices and ensure upcoming projects are designed and built for maximum longevity.
“New Zealanders expect infrastructure that stands the test of time.
“By learning from Transmission Gully and applying those lessons, we can deliver better outcomes in future projects.”