Last Friday the NZ Transport Agency Board chose an eastern alignment which will avoid the existing Mount Messenger and provide a more direct and efficient freight route for Taranaki.
This arrangement was known as option C during the public consultation.
“In 2016, the Government announced that funding would be available to accelerate this project as part of the Accelerated Regional Roading Programme,” says transport minister Simon Bridges.
“State Highway 3 is the critical link between Taranaki and the Waikato. Improving the safety and reliability of this route is a real priority for the Government as it will contribute to the ongoing economic growth of Taranaki,” says Bridges.
“After over a year of extensive assessment and consultation, it’s exciting to now be able to announce the selected option for the Mount Messenger bypass,” he says.
The eastern alignment option delivers safety, resilience and travel time benefits while avoiding geologically unstable areas.
According to the minister, it is also the preferred option of both the road transport sector and the Department of Conservation.
“This project will provide a host of wider economic benefits, including additional local employment opportunities, the development of region’s tourism sector and a much-needed reliable freight and lifeline route connecting Taranaki and the Waikato,” says Bridges.
“Taranaki has the highest Gross Domestic Product per capita in New Zealand. This new and improved route will help increase productivity in the region and provide a safer, more resilient connection to the Waikato,” he says.
“The new route will ensure Taranaki’s goods have greater and more reliable access to domestic and world markets as well as providing better access to tourist visiting the region,” says Bridges.
The project is estimated to cost $200 million, for an anticipated completion in 2021.
The funding will come through the Government’s Accelerated Regional Roading Programme and National Land Transport Fund.
