Road upgrade works on Boucher Ave and surrounding streets in Te Puke will restart from late August as the final stage of a major infrastructure project gets underway.

The project, led by Western Bay of Plenty District Council, includes strengthening underground water and stormwater infrastructure and rebuilding sections of the road network to support future growth in the area.

In a media release, council said the work is scheduled to resume on Monday, August 31, following a planned pause in March to allow safer access for large orchard vehicles during the kiwifruit harvest season.

The stormwater and water main upgrades have already been completed, while road reconstruction work had begun before construction was temporarily halted. Contractor Fulton Hogan will now continue with the road rebuild, which is expected to take about six months to complete before the next harvest season.

Council senior transportation project engineer Jamie Minchington said the route was a critical link for the community.

“This area is a key route in Te Puke, used frequently by residents, students and families, emergency services, the kiwifruit industry, and others in our community. It’s critical we ensure the underground infrastructure and road itself is up to scratch to meet the demands of a growing community,” he said.

“Once the upgrades are complete, the community will benefit directly from a new road that is safer, more durable, and better suited to everyday traffic and heavy vehicle movements.”

The work will involve sections of Boucher Ave and No 2 Rd being excavated and rebuilt in stages, followed by new chipseal and road markings. Minor remedial work will also be undertaken on Cameron Rd, Clydesburn Ave and Randell Place.

Detours will be in place at times via Cameron Rd, Clydesburn Ave, Hookey Drive, Dudley Vercoe Drive, Tynan St, Glen Terrace and Moehau St.

Motorists can expect road closures, stop-go traffic management, delays during peak periods, temporary driveway closures and periods of noise and vibration while work is underway.

“We’re advising the community to please plan ahead and allow extra travel time while the work is ongoing,” Minchington said.

He acknowledged the project had taken longer than originally planned and said efforts would be made to minimise disruption and keep residents, businesses and schools informed.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding shown by residents, school families and growers as we work through the remaining stages to deliver these important upgrades for the long-term benefit of the community.”

A community information session will be held at Te Puke Fire Station, 13 Boucher Ave, on Saturday, August 15, from 2pm to 4pm.

The session will include a presentation from Fulton Hogan followed by a question-and-answer session with the project team.