With bike racks full and skateboard storage bursting at the seams, Mount Maunganui College principal Alastair Sinton is under no illusion as to how important it is to provide safe travel options for his students along Maunganui Rd.

Tauranga City Council is entering the fourth and final stage of Maunganui Road upgrades with work about to get underway on the first phase of the Hull Rd to Tui St section.

Fulton Hogan has been appointed to complete the works, which are set to begin on Wednesday, March 13, between New World supermarket and Z service station.

Alastair says it’s a fair expectation from our community that students and staff can get to and from school safely. “Any improvements to the roading network to ensure commuter safety would be very well received.”

TCC service transformation lead James Jacobs says the final design factors in upgrading intersections, median islands and improved cycling facilities, lighting and safer access to the new Destination Skatepark.

A new crossing at Tweed St means safer access the new skatepark. Photo: supplied.

“We are excited to be able to provide these improvements for the community but understand that construction in a well-used and much-loved area means there will be a level of disruption to traffic and parking at times,” says James.

He says the feedback from businesses, Mount Maunganui College, and the Returned Services Association has been largely supportive of the upgrades and provided some valuable local insight.

“People are aware of the road safety issues and are keen to make the area safer for everyone, no matter how they are moving.”

Council staff and contractors will continue to work closely with businesses and other stakeholders throughout construction. For more information, visit: www.tauranga.govt.nz/maunganui

-Tauranga City Council.