A new overbridge will connect Ohauiti with the Windermere Polytech Campus.

'This will make traveling by bike and foot both safer and more accessible,” says Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller, who advocated for the overbridge in response to increased traffic on state highway 29A.

An artist's impression of the overbridge.

'We need to ensure people have a range of choices for traveling around their community and this overbridge will open up great opportunities for walking and cycling in the area.”

This announcement follows the one made by Transportation Minister Simon Bridges of the final section of the Western Bay of Plenty's cycling network from Te Tumu Road in Papamoa to Paengaroa Village being complete.

This new cycleway spans 10 kilometres and is one of the projects funded by the $17 million partnership between government, the New Zealand Transport Agency, Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

'Projects like the one completed today showcase what can be achieved when agencies work together,” says Todd.

'We are currently experiencing booming migration and growth, this cycleway is a great asset which will be used by locals and tourists to get around our fantastic region.

'Dedicated routes for pedestrians and cyclists are just one of the ways the Government is working to ensure the Bay of Plenty is a well-connected and safe place for families and visitors.”

Other projects in the pipeline include the $8.7 million Omokoroa to Tauranga cycleway and the $6.9 million spend to connect cycle links around Tauranga.