Work to create a safer, better-connected Waipawa main street starts next week
Work to deliver on the community’s vision for Waipawa’s main street is scheduled to start next week.
From Monday 22 April Tūpore Infrastructure starting construction of the revised trial traffic interventions that night.
The Central Hawke’s Bay District Council said in a statement that the Streets for People project, which is 90 percent funded by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and Council’s 10 percent contributing to officer time, resumes next week with revised designs to introduce trial solutions to help create safer and more people-friendly streets.
“The project was put on hold in February following a nationwide pause on the use of raised platforms on state highways.”
Central Hawke’s Bay Deputy Mayor Kelly Annand says the team are looking forward to resuming the project.
“Council is committed to delivering this important project for Waipawa and achieving what community has been calling for for many years. We have been working closely with our partners to identify effective alternatives that prioritise pedestrian safety and community cohesion while aligning with government’s vision of a safe and efficient transport system."
The revised plans include two flat (at street level) pedestrian crossings equipped with safety lighting, one near the Waipawa library and one near the BP station; and a centre island on SH2 near Madge Hunter Park to narrow the carriageway and slow traffic speed as it approaches the planned new roundabout at the intersection of Ruataniwha Street and SH2. New signage, road markings, planter boxes and bollards will be introduced as further traffic calming measures and to encourage visitors to stop, stay and enjoy what Waipawa has to offer.
“The commencement of construction brings us one step closer to realising the community’s vision of a vibrant, people-centred Waipawa that both recognises the town’s historic character and allows everyone to get to where they are going safely," says Central Hawke’s Bay Councillor Pip Burne.
Construction is scheduled to start Monday 22 April and take six to eight weeks (weather permitting), with night works scheduled from 7 pm to 6 am, Sunday through Thursday. This phased approach aims to minimise disruption to road users and businesses along Waipawa's main street. "We are committed to completing the construction efficiently and responsibly, with as minimal disruption to daily activities as possible," says Councillor Burne.
As construction gets underway, Council will continue to keep the community well informed throughout the project and as details are confirmed for the Harker Street development.
The Streets for People programme provides for the community to have the opportunity to give feedback once all the trial interventions are in place, which will be considered alongside independent monitoring of the effectiveness of the changes and help determine which will be made permanent, relocated or removed. Anyone with questions or concerns is encouraged to call Council on 06 857 8060 or email streetsforpeople@chbdc.govt.nz.
