The NZ Transport Agency’s $268 million project extends from Manukau to Papakura along State Highway 1 and will improve safety and journey reliability on Auckland’s Southern Motorway.

Leighton Contractors will start establishment work from November with construction beginning in February.

Project completion is expected in 2018. However, extra southbound lanes will be completed in early 2017 to coincide with the opening of the Waterview tunnel and ensure there’s capacity for additional traffic entering SH1 from SH20.

NZ Transport Agency’s Auckland Highways Manager, Brett Gliddon, says the project is a critical piece of the network which supports current investment in the Western Ring Route and the regional connections south of Auckland.

“The Southern Corridor is a key route connecting Auckland to the rest of the country. The project will support the rapid population growth that is expected in south Auckland over the next 30 years, while meeting the immediate needs of the city.”

Walking and cycling improvements will also form a key part of the project.

Environmental benefits include low impact and sustainable stormwater treatment methods, salt marsh restoration at the Pahurehure Inlet and significant planting to incorporate eco-sourced indigenous species.

The Southern Corridor Improvements project includes:
• Southbound widening – to 4 lanes between SH20 and Hill Road and to 3 lanes between Hill Road and Papakura
• Northbound widening – to 3 lanes from Papakura to Takanini
• Takanini Interchange upgrade
• Upgrade of 16 existing bridges and construction of six new structures
• A new 4.5km walking and cycleway
• New LED lighting