Construction on Cambridge Rd in preparation for a new signalised intersection with State Highway 29 is now under way.

This work is part of the Tauriko Enabling Works project, a post on the Waikato and Bay of Plenty NZ Transport Agency Facebook page said.

“In order to upgrade the SH29/Cambridge Road intersection with traffic lights, we first need to build a retaining wall on Cambridge Road to ensure the road is safe and wide enough to accommodate future traffic volumes,” the post said.

“Work is now underway installing temporary sheet piles – this involves driving interlocking steel sheets into the ground creating a barrier, supporting the excavation site and resisting soil and water movement.

“This helps stabilise the site before the retaining wall work starts.”

To complete the sheet piling, a short section of the northbound lane on Cambridge Rd, from the SH29 intersection to 563 Cambridge Rd, will be closed from Monday, January 6 until early February.

All Bethlehem-bound vehicles will be required to use alternative routes. The southbound lane will remain open.

NZTA said this work has been timed to minimise disruption by maximising works during the school holidays when traffic is lighter.

“NZTA thanks drivers, local residents and business for their patience and understanding.

“The upgrade of the SH29/Cambridge Road intersection is a key part of the Tauriko Enabling Works project.

“Making it a much safer and more efficient intersection, including a new connection to Whiore Avenue for buses and people walking and cycling and wanting to access Tauriko Business Estate.”

Detour information: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18F7cD8fm5/