SH82 Waitaki River Bridges Replacement project

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Project introduction

Work on new bridges to replace the 132 year-old two single lane bridges (256m and 140m long) across the Waitaki River on SH82 at Kurow was fully completed in November 2014, including the removal of the old bridges.

  • Estimated project cost

    $5 million to $20 million
  • Project type

    Bridge replacement
  • Project status

    Completed

Purpose

To provide two modern two-lane bridges across the Waitaki River linking State Highway 82 with Kurow, on the south bank, and Hakataramea on the north bank.

The new bridges will have a cycle-pedestrian path on the downstream side and will provide a dependable alternative route if State Highway 1 at the Waitaki River Bridge is closed. State Highway 82 offers the only handy alternative route for motorists to reach destinations north and south of the Waitaki River. 

Benefits

  • Maintain an alternative route for SH1 traffic in case of emergencies, such as crashes or floods that close SH1 or make it impassable.
  • To provide route security along SH82 between Kurow and Waimate.
  • Improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians using the bridges.
  • Protect the community cohesion between Kurow and the Hakataramea Valley, which has existed since the bridges were built in 1881.
  • Ensure residents in the Hakataramea area have access to essential services and employment in Kurow.
  • Increase the capacity for over-sized vehicles, such as agricultural machinery and freight, to use SH82 rather than detour to use SH1.

Project features

  • Two new two-lane bridges.
  • Improved and realigned approaches from both banks.
  • A barrier separated walkway for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Upgraded river protection works.