Cambridge high level bridge to reopen

5 May 2014
Four months after it was closed for repairs the Cambridge high level bridge will once again be open to two-way traffic this weekend (May 10-11).

The $1.1 million contract began in January this year and has been completed within the expected timeframe. That's despite finding that additional work needed to be done once the project had started.

Waipa District Council's road corridor manager Dawn Inglis said more rust was discovered than expected but the excellent weather conditions for much of the project had helped with completion timeframes.

Brian Perry Civil has done an excellent job in keeping part of the bridge operating safely while they carried out some tricky work on scaffolding 35.4 metres above a river, she said.

The project included widening the footpaths on both sides of the bridge by 40 cm and repair work on the bridge structure. Drainage from the bridge surface has also been improved.

Ms Inglis acknowledged the disruption to Cambridge residents during the lengthy repairs and thanked people for their patience and understanding.

Unfortunately when we do this kind of work, it often does cause issues for some people. But I hope pedestrians, cyclists and people using mobility scooters can now enjoy a safer and more convenient path across the river, she said.

The future of the temporary roundabout at the intersection of Shakespeare Street and SH1 during the bridge repairs rests with the New Zealand Transport Agency. The Agency has indicated that the roundabout causes safety issues to large vehicles on SH1 and should be removed.

Ms Inglis said the positive feedback from locals had been significant and Waipa District Council was keen to see the roundabout remain.

But while this intersection is on SH1 that's NZTA's decision. Council does intend to construct a permanent roundabout at this location once the new Expressway is opened, she said.

Ends

For further information please contact:

Jeanette Tyrrell (on behalf of council) 027 5077 599