Work is underway on a pilot project to bring wider footpaths, greener spaces and some one-way streets to Tauranga city centre.

The one-way traffic system will be introduced to parts of Harington, Hamilton, Spring, Wharf and Willow streets and remain in place for at least two years during the city centre transformation.

Contractors started work early this week and are looking to work mostly at night for several more weeks to finish by April.

Tauranga City Council’s team leader of transport development Tom McEntyre says doing most of the work after-hours will help minimise disruption for motorists and businesses during the day.

The council is thanking people for their patience while this work is underway.

The pilot project will help moderate vehicle speed, reduce difficulties at intersections, and improve visibility for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

It will also make the city centre more attractive and accessible.

The project has been carefully timed to avoid events such as Children’s Day and the Jazz Festival, while ensuring the changes are in place before nearby building projects get underway.

The new one-way streets will reduce the number of road closures needed for those building projects, because it will be easier to provide space for construction activities.

Although most of the work will be completed this month, some additional work will occur later with little disruption expected.

The pilot will be monitored and reviewed to see if the changes should be retained, altered, or extended through other parts of the city centre.