Ring Road project enters new phase

Work on a new phase of the Hamilton Ring Road project begins next week, with major changes to the Wairere Drive-River Road roundabout.

The roundabout, at the eastern end of Pukete Bridge, is one of the city’s busiest junctions, with 35,000 vehicle movements a day.

Hamilton City Council City Development Manager Andrew Parsons says work on the intersection is expected to take five months, and will have an impact on all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

Work includes installation of traffic lights, widening of lanes and construction of crossings and paths for pedestrians and cyclists.

“The area of work is very confined, and so there will be unavoidable lane closures from time to time,” Mr Parsons says. “But our contractor Downer will be working to minimise disruptions. We apologise in advance to motorists for any inconvenience over the next five months."

To relieve congestion, Mr Parsons urged motorists who use the intersection to use alternative routes, car pool, use buses, cycle or walk, stagger journey times to avoid peak hour, or work from home.

He pointed motorists and residents to www.facebook.com/hamiltonringroad and www.facebook.com/hamiltoncitycouncil and the Hamilton City Council website for regular updates on the project.

“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. This is one part of the whole Ring Road Project, which will ultimately vastly improve traffic flows around the city.”