Cambridge commuters using the Cambridge Road and Hamilton Road route will soon enjoy the results of almost two years of roadworks, with the newly-sealed road and upgraded roundabout now open to two lanes.
Readying the site for the final pedestrian and cycle underpass
Waipā District Council project delivery manager Jean de Villiers said the milestone will come as a welcome relief to many who travel the route daily along one of Cambridge’s largest growth corridors.
“Constructing a major arterial road takes time and careful planning, and we’re pleased to be delivering these improvements for Cambridge’s growing population,” said de Villiers.
Construction began in August 2023, and while the journey to this point has been extensive, de Villiers said it was necessary groundwork to future-proof the area.
“To prepare for the central road connecting the new developments, we first had to install essential infrastructure — water mains, stormwater systems, and drainage — to support both current and future growth,” he said.
Looking towards the roundabout and the Waikato River in the distance. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
A major part of the project also involved relocating a live gas main to allow space for two new underpasses designed for pedestrians and cyclists.
With the road sealing complete and two-lane roundabout access now available, the focus shifts away from the road corridor to the next phase: installing the underpass that will link the new subdivision, Te Awa Life Care, and the nearby cycleway.
“The detour for pedestrians and cyclists will remain in place until the underpass is installed and the shared path is complete,” de Villiers said.
The underpass, currently being manufactured in Tauranga, is progressing well. This will be transported to site in sections and craned into place in 14 segments from mid-June.
Following the underpass installation, the final stage of the project will include completing traffic islands, kerbs, road markings, signage, and the shared pathway connecting Te Awa Life Care and the Velodrome.
The end is almost in sight with the full project on track to be completed by September 2025.
Aerial view of the roundabout and surrounding development
