Ground or geotechnical testing began this week as part of the study for a future road network south of Hamilton, including Tamahere.

Designed to provide a better understanding of the area’s geological, soil and water table conditions, the ground tests involve hand-drilling, probes, borehole drilling and soil testing.

The long-term study known as the Southern Links project is a joint one by the NZ Transport Agency and Hamilton City Council, which aim to develop a network of well-connected state highway and urban arterial routes linking State Highway 1 from Kahikatea Drive to the Waikato Expressway at Tamahere, and State Highway 3 from the airport to central and east Hamilton.

Kaye Clark, NZTA State Highways Manager Hamilton, said the study will review the possible Southern Links route options and consider freight and public transport, rail, walking, cycling, utility services, and both current and future land use. Extensive site assessments and public consultation will be undertaken to determine the best routes and design options for the proposed new transport corridors.

“For example, we need to know how deep the peat flats are at Rukuhia especially in the vicinity of a potential crossing of the main trunk railway, and the stability of the land around the Waikato River so we can assess the feasibility of potential new river crossings.”

The main aim of the project at this stage is to plan for the long-term needs of the city, particularly the projected growth and development south of Hamilton in the Peacocke’s and Hamilton Airport area and will provide certainty for local residents and developers.

The proposal involves two new crossings of the Waikato River and around 32 kilometres of roads – 21km of new state highway and 11km of urban roads in the city’s Peacocke Structure Plan area.

The aim is to reduce congestion, improve safety on SH1 and SH3 in Hillcrest and Melville, improve freight flows, and be a key part of the city’s urban arterial network.

The study began last September and will take about two and a half years to complete to the stage of designated routes.

Click here for earlier story.