A major bridge in the Clutha District hit a milestone this week but it may mean delays for motorists.
The first two steel beams arrived in Beaumont from Hawke's Bay this week. Photo: Supplied / Waka Kotahi
The new Beaumont Bridge on State Highway 8 crosses over the Clutha River and is being funded by Waka Kotahi.
Principal project manager Colin MacKay said the first steel bridge beams arrived this week from Hawke's Bay.
"The first two beams left Napier on Monday and arrived on Thursday which was good going in a week of demanding weather," he said.
"All 20 main beams are being prefabricated in Napier, ahead of the truck trip 1200km south to Beaumont, a journey that could take up to five days.
"Two beams a week are being transported to the site over coming weeks."
The beams will travel south on State Highway one before heading inland on State highway 8 from just south of Milton.
Waka Kotahi journey manager Nicole Felts said it could mean delays for some motorists.
"While the truck drivers will pull over where possible throughout their journey, people need to build potential delays of up to 20 minutes into their travel plans," Felts said.
"Waka Kotahi thanks everyone for their patience while these bridge beams are being transported over the next few weeks."
The beams will be stored on site until they are positioned on the new bridge structure from late September.
Next week, the temporary trestle over the river that will be used to build the new bridge is expected to be completed.
The new, two-lane bridge will include a shared walking and cycling path and is due to be completed in late 2023.
