SH1

The upgrade of State Highway 1 (SH1) in Whangarei, New Zealand has moved a step forward as the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is set to begin work on the upgrading of SH1 through Selwyn Avenue.

The move comes as the upgrade of the intersection between SH1, SH14 and Maunu Road in Whangarei nears completion.

Contractors will commence the first stage of the Selwyn Avenue works on 24 March, installing new traffic signals to complete the upgrade of SH1 between Western Hills Drive through to the Caltex Service Station, and from the Rust Avenue Bridge to 5th Avenue on Selwyn Avenue.

NZTA highways manager Tommy Parker said: "We’re excited to start another of the improvement projects in Whangarei, it means we can deliver on what we’ve promised and provide the community safer and easier access through the city."

"We can deliver on what we’ve promised and provide the community safer and easier access."

Work under the new project includes widening the existing highway, constructing new footpaths, as well as installating new utilities.

The programme is divided into three stages, relocating overhead power and telecommunication services underground; widening of present road and constructing new footpaths; and completion of the upgrade.

The project is scheduled to be completed in September this year.

The NZTA is working with Whangarei District Council to improve SH1, and has committed a total of five projects to help manage growing traffic numbers and improve safety.

Image: SH1 traveling through the Rangipo Desert. Photo: courtesy of Lcmortensen.