- Hon Chris Bishop
Work to replace the deck and beams of Symes Bridge on State Highway 39 (SH39) between Ōtorohanga and Pirongia will begin on 11 October, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.
“SH39 is a vital route through western Waikato and an important freight connection between Taranaki and Auckland. This upgrade will ensure Symes Bridge remains safe, reliable and fit for the traffic that depends on it every day,” Mr Bishop says.
“The upgraded bridge will be stronger and over one metre wider, improving its resilience and keeping people and freight moving safely along this important route.
“NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has contracted Oxcon to deliver the work. Oxcon is also constructing the permanent replacement for the Mangati Bridge, four kilometres north on SH39, allowing the two important projects to be coordinated efficiently.
“Coordinating the Symes Bridge upgrade with construction of the new Mangati Bridge means the most disruptive work on this section of SH39 can be completed within the same period, rather than requiring separate closures at a later date.
“I appreciate the closure will cause some inconvenience, but completing this work now will deliver a stronger and more reliable bridge while avoiding further disruption in the future.
“I’d like to thank local communities, businesses and freight operators for their patience while this important upgrade is completed.”
Notes to editor:
- Work is scheduled to begin on Sunday 11 October and SH39 will be closed for up to 2 months.
- During this time, traffic will be detoured on SH3 through Te Awamutu.
- This work was planned earlier this year but was delayed after the February storm event which damaged the Mangati Bridge beyond repair.
