Transport Minister, Chris Bishop, has welcomed news that a contract has now been signed for strengthening work the State Highway 50 (SH50) Ngaruroro River Bridge, south of Fernhill.
Funding for the bridge strengthening was approved in December last year. The bridge, which is more than 80 years old, has had speed and weight restrictions in place since October 2022.
“SH50 is an important route into and out of Hawke’s Bay for freight operators, as well as local businesses, emergency services, and other road users. It also plays an important role as an alternative route when other parts of the network are disrupted,” said Mr Bishop.
“Since funding was approved, the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has been working to secure consents and finalise detailed planning. Downer will deliver the project, with site offices due to be established shortly.”
At a cost of between $5 million and $10 million, construction is expected to begin in October and be completed next year.
“Once the work is complete, the weight and speed restrictions currently in place on the bridge will be lifted. The strengthened bridge will support High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMV) and 50MAX freight configurations, while also providing a stronger and more resilient transport link for everyone who relies on SH50,” said the Minister.
“The National Infrastructure Plan is clear that our first priority should be maintaining and improving the infrastructure we already have and this is a great example. This project will deliver a considerable upgrade to the SH50 Ngaruroro River Bridge, as it has never been suitable for HPMVs and 50MAX, even before the 2022 restrictions.
“I want to thank local freight operators and communities across Hawke’s Bay for their patience and advocacy, alongside MPs Katie Nimon and Catherine Wedd. I know we are all looking forward to construction getting underway in the next few months and being completed as soon as possible next year,” Mr Bishop said.
