In a roundabout way, it seems to work

Deputy Mayor Toby Adams by the new temporary roundabout in Paeroa.

Traffic is flowing smoothly through a former bottleneck near Paeroa's big bottle, thanks to the installation of a temporary roundabout.

Trial roundabouts were installed by the NZ Transport Agency this week at the intersections of State Highway 2 and State Highway 26 at Paeroa, and State Highway 26, and State Highway 25A at Kopu.

Hauraki District Deputy Mayor Toby Adams says traffic flow has long been an issue during peak holiday periods at the Paeroa intersection and after watching the new road layout in action, he's fizzing.

'We knew there were some concerns about whether there would be enough room for a roundabout at this particular site so we asked them (NZ Transport Agency) to think outside the square, and this is what they came up with.

'We're really pleased to see this solution being trialled. So far it seems to be really working, but the layout is literally not set in concrete so there is room for tinkering if need be, to achieve the best results for everybody.”

NZTA Transport System Manager, Karen Boyt, says the aim of the trial is to see if the temporary roundabouts reduce delays over the summer period.

'The trial will be monitored during peak times and if the roundabouts do not improve the situation for road users they can be removed."

Plan ahead, avoid delays and stay safe on our roads is the message from the NZ Transport Agency, this summer.

'Planning ahead and knowing what is happening on the roads means you can consider taking another route, if possible, or factor in any disruptions so you arrive at your destination safely, and on time."

The Transport Agency is also urging drivers to take a little time to make sure they are well-rested and their vehicles are safe before starting their journeys.

'Plan in advance where you'll take breaks on your journey, and share the driving if possible. While on your journey, keep within the speed limit and drive to the conditions. With more roadwork crews on the roads over the coming months, drivers are also reminded to slow down through road works."

Travellers can get information on journey times, and possible delays on www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz or by calling 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 444 449).

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2 comments

They work because---

Posted on 08-12-2017 10:15 | By Papamoaner

With traffic lights there are periods where nothing moves. With roundabouts traffic is always moving, so they are therefore more efficient. But let's not make the same mistake as some other places, by placing pedestrian crossings too close to roundabouts. It's hazardous to focus to the right when some wally has installed a ped crossing immediately to the left. Most traffic engineers are pretty good, but we have seen some exceptions.


Amazeballs, a roundabout

Posted on 08-12-2017 10:22 | By maildrop

Whatever next? Far too many of these fancy roundabouts and lights popping up. Takes forever to get my tractor to the next paddock.


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