The work is part of stage two $180-200 million project to improve the access through Rolleston and was part one of the government's Road of Regional Significance projects.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop said: "Rolleston is at the heart of the fastest growing district in New Zealand. Currently, SH1 carries around 24,000 vehicles per day, 11 percent of that heavy vehicles, with expectations it could reach 33,000 over the next 20 years. SH1 needs an upgrade to get ahead of that growth and we’re getting on with it."
Work on the flyover follows the completion Dunns Crossing and Walkers Rd intersection with SH1 which is now fully open under temporary speed restrictions.
A pedestrian and cycling subway next to the new roundabout is also now open to the public, providing a safe route under SH1.
The flyover is due to be completed by the end of 2027. The remaining work on SH1, including removal of two signalised intersections, and upgrades of council owned roads and the rail level crossing, will be completed by the end of 2028.
"Early work will start shortly for this second stage, including site clearance to make way for the new bridge. Piling is expected to get under way in October," Bishop said.
When complete the flyover from Rolleston Dr to Jones Rd will have two lanes for vehicle traffic travelling into the industrial area, accommodating the largest traffic flows, with a single lane for traffic travelling into Rolleston’s residential area.
A shared use path for walking and cycling is also planned for one side of the bridge.
The second stage of the Rolleston Access Improvements project also includes:
• The removal of the two signalised intersections on SH1 (Hoskyns Rd and Rolleston Drive North).
• Extension of the two southbound lanes on the motorway to just south of the planned bridge at Rolleston.
• A southbound service lane to access businesses and Rolleston town centre.
• Major safety improvements and upgrades to the rail level crossing at Hoskyns Rd.
