New clearways in effect from tomorrow at Mana

The NZ Transport Agency is reminding motorists that from Thursday morning at 6.30am, the new clearways on State Highway 1 at Mana Esplanade will be in effect during peak hours.

NZTA State Highways Manager Rod James says the new clearways mark the completion of the Paremata to Plimmerton Clearway project, which involves not just new clearways but a significant operational makeover for this busy section of State Highway 1.

"The project aims to make this busy section of highway more simple, user friendly and free-flowing while also improving safety, particularly around the Marina View intersection."

Mr James says the work involves replacing the T2 lanes with a clearway, which will operate in peak hours.

"We've also put in additional traffic signals and electronic signage to help this section of road work better for everyone."

The project sees the removal of the current T2 lane restrictions, and will improve safety and traffic flow, improve access to Marina View, and improve compliance through the use of the well-understood clearway format.

Mr James says the clearways will be monitored and enforced, and vehicles that fail to observe the clearway rules will be towed away and stored at the owners' expense.

Traffic signals have been installed and activated at the Marina View intersection to improve safety and to make it easier for pedestrians to cross the road.

Mr James thanked the Porirua City Council and the Mana community for working closely with the NZTA to make the improvements possible.

The project includes:

• Removal of all existing T2 static signage, road marking and associated infrastructure.
• Traffic signal controlled intersection at SH1/Marina View intersection including associated pedestrian phases.
• Clearway signs and associated road marking.
• Variable message electronic sign and speed activated warning sign.
• CCTV and associated power and communications hardware.
• Communications links and software.
• A permanent telemetry traffic counting station.
• Repairs including removal of green surfacing treatment.
• Road repairs and strengthening, particularly around the new traffic signals at Marina View.

The clearway on SH1 Mana Esplanade will operate from 1 March 2012. The clearway hours and restrictions are as follows:

• There is to be no parking in the Southbound kerbside lane, except for emergency vehicles and passenger service vehicles picking up or setting down passengers at authorised bus stops or parking bays during the following periods:
  • Monday to Friday (other than public holidays), from 6.30am to 9.30am; and
  • Sunday and Public Holidays, from 3.30pm to 6.30pm.
• There is to be no parking in the Northbound Kerbside Lane, except for emergency vehicles and passenger service vehicles picking up or setting down passengers at authorised bus stops or parking bays during the following periods:
  • Monday to Friday (other than public holidays), from 3.30pm to 6.30pm; and
  • Saturday from 11.30am to 2.30pm.