The Omokoroa Road upgrade from Western Avenue to Tralee Street will go ahead following the NZ Transport Agency's agreement to co-fund the $8 million project with Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

News of The Transport Agency's funding has been welcomed by Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber who says this strategic piece of road within Omokoroa is critical to cater for subdivision development and the planned population growth.

'The project will provide a safer environment and amenity for residents, motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians,” says Garry.

'This project adds to the upgraded section of Omokoroa Road that Council completed in 2018, running from the state highway to Western Avenue.”

Roadworks on Omokoroa Rd in 2018. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford

The Agency's Acting Director of Regional Relationships, Ross I'Anson, says the project will ensure Omokoroa Road is fit for purpose into the future.

'Omokoroa is a busy urban community and it's important the local infrastructure is safe for the growing number of people using it. It's good to see the project includes public transport improvements and amenities for pedestrians and cyclists,” says Ross.

Construction of this two-lane 1100m of new roadway will include relocation of underground services, relocation of existing overhead power lines, upgrading stormwater pipes, a new watermain, road widening with kerb and channel, a footpath, shared pedestrian/cycleway, new bus stops, two new bus shelters and an upgrade of the Tralee Street/Margaret Place intersection.

Council will undertake consultation with directly affected landowners and finalise the draft design before going to tender in early 2020.

The project is expected to be delivered over the two construction seasons 2020/2021 with completion estimated to be by June 2021. Wider communication will be done with the Omokoroa community once the timing of the construction programme is confirmed.

During construction, some disruption to traffic can be expected and traffic management will be in place.

In seeking the Transport Agency's 51 per cent of the project cost, Council completed a business case. Council's cost share will be funded from a mix of development contributions and rates.