The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has allocated funding for the initial design of a proposed two-lane bridge to be built alongside the current single-lane Kawarau Falls Bridge at Frankton near Queenstown.
NZTA Southern Regional Director Jim Harland says an announcement on the awarding of the design tender is expected in the next 4-6 weeks and the bridge design should be completed by the end of the year.
“Part of the design process involves applying for resource consents and ensuring connected walking and cycling routes around the bridge are catered for. Throughout this process the NZTA will be working closely with the Queenstown - Lakes District Council on all aspects of the design.”
Mr Harland said the completed design will enable the project to be advanced as far as possible, while the timing around the actual construction remains uncertain. The construction of a new bridge is in the Agency’s current 10-year Plan due to be reviewed in the next 12-18 months. To get the construction green light, it will have to compete in a very tight funding environment with other higher priority state highway bridges and road projects around the country.
