Major upgrades to a key stretch of Ōmokoroa Rd have been completed, marking the end of the first stage of works between State Highway 2 and Prole Rd.

Traffic management is being removed this week, with the speed limit on the upgraded section set at 60km/h once works are cleared, Western Bay of Plenty District Council said in a media release.

The project has widened the road from two lanes to four, delivering upgraded road layers, kerbs and channels, and a new roundabout connecting to a new industrial access road.

The work also opens up access to zoned industrial land near SH2, supported by a temporary stormwater pond while a permanent solution is finalised.

Additional improvements include undergrounding overhead power lines, upgrading fibre and telecommunications infrastructure, improving stormwater systems, and installing new centre islands, streetlighting, signage and road markings.

Council infrastructure growth and delivery manager Annelie Badenhorst said the upgrades were critical as the area continues to expand.

“Ōmokoroa continues to grow rapidly, and these upgrades are about making sure our infrastructure keeps pace while improving safety and accessibility for everyone using the road.”

Badenhorst said motorists and residents could expect improved traffic flow, safer intersections, and better walking and cycling facilities along the route.

She acknowledged the impact of the work on the community, thanking residents for their patience during construction, and also acknowledged contractor Higgins and central government funding support.

Stage one of the project cost $13 million and was supported through the Government’s Infrastructure Acceleration Fund, now administered by National Infrastructure Funding and Financing.

A formal opening was planned in the coming months.

Meanwhile, work was continuing on stage two of the Ōmokoroa Rd urbanisation project, extending from Prole Rd to the railway line near the Ōmokoroa fire station, with completion expected around October.