Napier’s Kennedy Road northbound off-ramp will be reopening to traffic later this month.

The off-ramp was closed in February this year as construction gathered pace on the State Highway 2 Hawke’s Bay Expressway project.

It was closed while piling was completed for the second Kennedy Road overbridge, which is being constructed as part of the wider project.

It was initially due to be closed til mid next year.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi project manager Ahmed Azazy says the project is progressing.

“Re-opening the off-ramp at this point will be welcome news to commuters. It’s an important link, connecting the expressway to Taradale and to Napier. We know the closure has caused delays for some commuters and we appreciate their support while the expressway project has progressed.

“By being able to close the off-ramp during piling, the teams have been able to construct it quicker.”

During the upcoming fortnight closure of the Meeanee Road northbound off-ramp, traffic will continue to be detoured north to the Taradale Road roundabout, as the Kennedy Road off-ramp isn’t suitable for heavy trucks or over-dimensional vehicles.

See also: Meeanee Road northbound off-ramp to close as HB Expressway project gathers pace

Beam lifts

In the nights leading up to the fortnight closure, the existing overbridge at Meeanee Road will close between 7pm and 5am from 21, 22 and 23 September, while beams are lifted into place for the second overbridge. North and south bound traffic will be diverted via the on and off ramps.