Bridge Investigation Nears Decision Phase

Investigation of an upstream crossing of the Manawatu River is reaching an important milestone which should see confirmation of a preferred site by September 2007.

Opus International Consultants were engaged by Council in 2006 to complete the investigation of a suitable site for a second bridge. The study includes consideration of the economic, social and environmental effects and benefits of a bridge.

The bridge site forms part of Council’s Eastern Growth Corridor, which it adopted in 2003 and now forms part of its 10 Year Plan.

This month Opus is evaluating all of the options for a river crossing and will recommend an option as the preferred site for a bridge. This preferred option will also identify the most appropriate approach corridors to link with the broader roading network, including links to the Pahiatua Track and the Manawatu District network.

The preferred option will be reported to Council’s Infrastructural Wellbeing Committee in June, and then released for public consultation to occur.

Following consultation, Opus will complete hydrological testing and assessment of the preferred option and complete a Scheme Assessment Report, part of the formal reporting process required for projects which will receive financial assistance from Land Transport New Zealand.

It is expected the final bridge recommendation will be considered by Council in September 2007.