The Government has welcomed the NZ Transport Agency’s commencement of work to replace nine priority bridges across the country.
Transport Minister, Simeon Brown said increasing productivity and economic growth was a key priority for the Government, and with many small bridges across the country suffering speed and weight restrictions due to their age and condition, it is essential these bridges are replaced with more modern and resilient structures.
“Nine priority bridges will be replaced over the next three years, including the SH6 Coal Creek Overbridge on the West Coast, SH82 Elephant Hill Bridge and Waihao North Bridge in Canterbury, and the SH25 Pepe Stream Bridge in the Waikato,” said Mr Brown.
“Visiting the Coromandel today, I understand the impact the current Pepe Stream Bridge is having on the local community and motorists that are visiting Tairua.”
At 81 years old, the Minister said the single lane bridge is a bottleneck, with severe congestion experienced during holiday periods.
“I’m pleased we’re getting on with work to deliver a modern two-lane replacement,” he said.
“Our state highways are critical routes for freight, tourism, and serve as important lifelines for communities around New Zealand. We must maintain, manage, and replace these bridge assets to a standard Kiwis need and expect. Particularly in rural and remote locations where alternative routes are not available.
“With a strong focus on maintenance, and prioritisation of network connectivity and productivity, NZTA can flatten the wave of bridge replacements needed over the next few decades. This allows us to target investment where it is needed most, while still ensuring road users can get where they need to go, quickly and safely.
“I look forward to these first nine priority bridges being replaced over the next three years and the benefits that will come to local communities from modern and more resilient structures,” said Minister Brown.
