Waikeria Pipeline project hits the streets
Work on the Waikeria Pipeline project is back underway on Mangapiko Street in Te Awamutu, as the project restarts under Covid-19 Alert Level 3.
Work is being undertaken under strict guidelines to enforce physical distancing, contact tracing and increased hygiene measures.
Waipā District Council’s Service Delivery Group Manager, Dawn Inglis, said the project is well-prepared for workers to carry out work safely on site under new Health and Safety guidelines.
“The majority of works take place using machinery and are manned with one person, where this isn’t possible, work “bubbles” have been established with strict contact tracing to ensure people can be stood down quickly if someone is confirmed with Covid-19,” Inglis said.
“One way the public can help our teams out is by maintaining their distance while out and about. We know it’s interesting to see all of these large pipes above ground and see the work underway but giving them plenty of room while you have a look means they can keep to their bubbles.”
Along with Mangapiko Street, work has also recommenced on the Albert Park and Waikeria Pump Stations, as well as along Waikeria Road. Once Waikeria Road pipeline has been laid, work will move to the State Highway 3 section towards Kihikihi.
Separate teams are in place at the Waikeria Pump Station, each with a separate focus area on the wet well, amenity building and inlet works.
“The full effect of Covid-19 on the work programme is still to be determined. We have experienced a four week shutdown and are still working through how level three will affect productivity on the sites. Covid-19 has also had knock on effects with suppliers which will need to be factored in, “ Inglis added.
“We’re in discussions with our contractors early and often to make sure we are across any changes to timeframes.”
Work on the Te Awamutu Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade has also commenced under Alert Level three. Once complete, the treatment plant will process wastewater from Waikeria correctional facility, Kihikihi and Te Awamutu.
People can learn more about the Waikeria Pipeline project by heading to www.waipadc.govt.nz/waikeria
Photo caption: Work on the Waikeria Pipeline project has restarted along Mangapiko Street, Te Awamutu at Alert Level 3.
