Guy welcomes good progress on Kapiti Expressway
Otaki MP Nathan Guy has welcomed the release of NZTA’s proposals for the Kapiti Expressway, following public consultation held early last year.
“NZTA has confirmed the alignment of the Otaki to Peka Peka expressway and made changes as a result of public feedback.
“There is strong public support for a local road to link Te Horo Beach Road and School Road to the north, with a bridge over the expressway and railway.
“Easy access interchanges in and out of the Otaki township will provide good access for both locals and shoppers. This will help maintain Otaki as a popular retail destination.
“The existing SH1 will become a local road north of Mary Crest, and a possible pathway for walkers and cyclists could run alongside the expressway. It could offer great opportunities for visitors to stop and buy locally grown produce.
“A bridge on Rahui Road will go over the expressway and railway, helping easily connect Otaki. This is in response to concerns raised by the local community.
“There is good progress on the MacKays to Peka Peka section as well. NZTA are aiming to lodge their application with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) in March, and continued geotechnical investigations are happening this month.
“The terrible accidents around Otaihanga over recent months have highlighted the need for a decent expressway with separate lanes. This will mean safer journeys and the existing SH1 can become a local road.
“It’s also good to see NZTA keeping the public informed with updated and more accurate costings on these projects.
“I’m pleased to see strong support for the upgrade of our roads, and that NZTA have listened closely to local feedback and are getting on with the job,” says Mr Guy.