Western Bay of Plenty District Council has confirmed road upgrade works on Boucher Avenue and its surrounding streets in Te Puke will resume from late August, marking the final stage of a major infrastructure upgrade project.
The project involves strengthening underground water and stormwater infrastructure and rebuilding the road to support the community’s future needs.
Works are scheduled to get underway on Monday 31 August after a planned pause earlier this year, in March, to allow safer and easier movement of large orchard vehicles during the kiwifruit harvest season.
To date, the stormwater and watermain pipe upgrades have been completed, with the road reconstruction already underway prior to works pausing in March. When work restarts, Fulton Hogan, the contractor, will continue with the road reconstruction. The works are expected to take approximately six months to complete, ahead of the next kiwifruit harvest season starting.
“This area is a key route in Te Puke, used frequently by residents, students and families, emergency services, the kiwifruit industry, and others in our community – it’s critical we ensure the underground infrastructure and road itself it is up to scratch to meet the demands of a growing community,” says Council’s Senior Transportation Project Engineer, Jamie Minchington.
“Once the upgrades are complete, the community will benefit directly from a new road that is safer, more durable, and better suited to everyday traffic and heavy vehicle movements.”
The works will involve sections of Boucher Avenue and No. 2 Road being excavated and rebuilt in stages, new chipseal laid, and road markings applied. Some minor remedial works will take place on Cameron Road, Clydesburn Avenue, and Randell Place. Detour routes will be in place at times along Cameron Road, Clydesburn Avenue, Hookey Drive, Dudley Vercoe Drive, Tynan Street, Glen Terrace, and Moehau Street.
“During the project, people will experience road closures and detours; single-lane stop/go traffic management; delays on Boucher Avenue, particularly during peak periods; temporary driveway closures; and periods of noise and vibration,” said Mr Minchington.
“We’re advising the community to please plan ahead and allow extra travel time while the work is ongoing.”
“We also acknowledge the project has taken longer than originally planned and recognise that roadworks are disruptive – the team will work to minimise disruption as much as is reasonably possible, and we’ll make sure residents, businesses, and schools are kept updated as the works progress.
“We appreciate the patience and understanding shown by residents, school families and growers as we work through the remaining stages to deliver these important upgrades for the long-term benefit of the community.”
A community information session will be held on Saturday 15 August, from 2pm to 4pm at the Te Puke Fire Station, where people can find out more, ask questions, and meet the project team.
What: Community Information Session
When: Saturday 15 August, 2-4pm
Where: Te Puke Fire Station, 13 Boucher Avenue, Te Puke.
