Preparatory work has started on the final stage of the SH16 Northwestern Motorway upgrade, the section between Lincoln Road and Westgate.
The NZ Transport Agency says widening the motorway from two to three lanes between Lincoln Road and Westgate will support the expected growth in the western suburbs and increased traffic using the Western Ring Route and Waterview tunnels, which are scheduled to open in 2017.
More options for cycling, walking and bus travel
This project will also create a new bus shoulder lane in each direction, reduce bottlenecks and provide more options for walking, cycling and bus travel.
The interchange at Royal Road will be improved with more lanes, upgraded ramps and a wider, three-lane bridge over the motorway, comprising an on-road cycle lane and a 3-metre-wide shared pedestrian and cycle path. Huruhuru Road Bridge will be replaced and raised to improve clearance for high vehicles on the motorway.
Cycleway extension
Cyclists and pedestrians will be able to enjoy the Northwestern Cycleway all the way to the Westgate footbridge, which will be extended as part of this project. The 3-metre-wide shared path will connect communities and provide more options for pedestrians and cyclists to use the path for commuting and leisure activities.
The project will tie into the recent work completed by the NZ Transport Agency at the SH16 Lincoln Road Interchange.
Construction is due to start mid-2016 and is expected to be completed by early 2019.
