Construction of Papakōwhai Rd’s shared path will start late next month, making an important slice of Porirua’s roading network safer for users.
The contract has been awarded to John Fillmore Contracting Ltd and construction will be done in sections between Aotea Lagoon and the southern pedestrian railway overbridge.
Darrell Statham, Porirua City Council Manager, Transportation, says the majority of the work will happen on the eastern side of the road, where the existing footpath is being widened, in parts, to make a 3.5-metre wide shared path.
Traffic management will be in place and road users can expect delays during construction so should consider using alternative routes where they can. Pedestrian and cycle access will remain open during construction.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says the shared path – which will also form part of the national Te Araroa Trail – will help make it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to get around our city.
“It’s really important that we reduce emissions and focus on moving towards a more climate-resilient way of life. This shared path will provide a valuable walking and cycling connection linking Aotea College, Aotea Lagoon, Paremata School and Paremata station.”
Work also includes wetland planting and improved road and path lighting along the route. A bike pump track will be installed at Aotea Lagoon along with a new bike tool station and bike lock up area.
The shared path is funded from the Government’s Transport Choices Programme, led by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, and managed by Porirua City Council.
Darrell says an additional upgrade at the Whitford Brown Ave intersection with Papakōwhai Rd is still in the design phase, with more work to be done on how to manage underground services during construction. It is likely to start in the new year and will include signalised pedestrian crossings, traffic signals, an additional left turning lane out of Papakōwhai Rd, better lighting and a new raised pedestrian crossing at the southern entrance to Aotea Lagoon.
For more information visit poriruacity.govt.nz/papakowhai-projects
24 Oct 2023
