Auckland Transport media release

28 August 2014

Albany Highway North upgrade to start in October

Auckland Transport has announced an expected October start date for its long-awaited upgrade of Albany Highway North.

Auckland Transport’s biggest roading project on the North Shore since the Northern Busway, the $38 million upgrade will see the highway more than double in capacity, with a new transit lane in each direction; on and off-road cycle routes and wider footpaths, a new bridge over the Oteha Stream and replacement of three major roundabouts with signalised intersections.

The 3.8km stretch of highway to be upgraded extends from the Schnapper Rock Road/Bush Road intersection in the south to the Albany Expressway in the north.

The project is expected to take two and a half years to complete and will be delivered by contractor Fulton Hogan.

Albany Highway is a regional arterial road serving the North Harbour industrial estate, five schools, Massey University and a cluster of residential estates. The highway also provides an important connection to other areas of Auckland and is a vital transit road for commuters and industry.

Together with the NZ Transport Agency’s current upgrade of State Highway 1 between Upper Harbour Highway and Greville Road, the Albany Highway North upgrade is part of a wider strategy to improve transport links on the North Shore.

Auckland Transport’s Roading Group Manager, Andrew Scoggins, says the upgrade will provide many benefits for the Albany community and others who use the busy arterial route, particularly during peak travel times.

“With traffic volumes on the highway predicted to rise from 15,000 to 20,000 vehicles a day by 2021, this upgrade is essential for reducing congestion, improving safety for all road users (including the area’s 5,000 students) and encouraging the use of a range of transport modes,” he says.

“The upgrade will also help to cater for projected growth in the Albany area and assist the general flow of traffic. Importantly, the introduction of T3 transit lanes during peak travel times will improve journey times for those using public transport or ride-sharing.

“Local residents will also benefit from new walking and cycling facilities, including new off-road cycle paths that will provide safer journeys to and from school for young riders.”

Auckland Transport will be holding public information days prior to construction to give people the opportunity to meet the project team, view plans and ask questions. Details will be advertised in the near future.

For more information and updates on the Albany Highway North Upgrade, visit www.AT.govt.nz/albanyhighway

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