Replacing cracked beams on Waikare bridge

Contractors are to carry out strengthening work to the temporary Waikare Gorge Bailey bridge on State Highway 2 between Wairoa and Napier over two nights later this month. Hawke’s Bay Today picture

The Waikare Gorge Bailey bridge on State Highway 2 between Wairoa and Napier will close for two nights of maintenance work later this month.

Contractors will be working to instal new concrete beams over Tuesday, October 24, and Wednesday, October 25.

To minimise disruption for daytime traffic the bridge will be closed from 7pm to 5am the following day.

“Access for emergency services will remain open at all times during this work,” Waka Kotahi NZTA said.

“During the closure, the existing beams will be replaced by new, precast beams at the approaches to the bridge on either end.

“To minimise disruption onsite and ensure the closure is as quick as possible, the beams are being precast offsite,” Waka Kotahi Hawke’s Bay/Tairāwhiti system manager Martin Colditz said.

“Unfortunately some cracks have developed in the existing beams. The bridge remains structurally sound but it’s important we instal new beams to ensure future vibrations from daily traffic are minimised.

“It’s a timely reminder the bridge can take up to 50MAX vehicles, and we really appreciate the cooperation of those whose vehicles are too heavy to use the bridge.”

Digital display boards outlining the closures will be installed near the bridge and at Whirinaki to the south and Wairoa north.

Meanwhile, Transport Rebuild East Coast Alliance contractors will be completing work at the old Waikare Bridge from the following week (Monday, October 30).

“The work involves clearing debris in the surrounding waterway and the removal of the existing bridge spans to prevent further build-up of debris in the area. Work will take approximately five-to-six weeks (weather-permitting).”

Crews will be onsite from 7am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, during this time.  The site will be managed 24/7 using traffic light stop/go controls.

“At certain times, five-to-10-minute delays may be required to enable the six-wheeler truck and excavator access to remove old sections of the collapsed bridge.”