|
Improvement works will start in the New Year to a number of intersections along Mill Street. The contractor Downer EDI Works will set up on site in early January. Work is most likely to start with the restriction of right turns on Willoughby Street by The Mill. It is expected the improvements will be completed by early April 2010.
The improvements are aimed to maximise the capacity of Mill Street, lower congestion at intersections and improve road safety and cycle facilities.
Planning for the project has been done to achieve the maximum progress while keeping the inconvenience to residents and occupiers to a minimum.
Signs will in place advising motorists of the works as will electronic VMS (Variable Message Sign) boards – these are very effective, as well as cones and barriers. Advertising on radio around peak traffic times is planned to reduce congestion during the construction period.
Key Improvements
The improvements are a result of a review or the Mill Street corridor, detailed investigations and feedback from occupiers and other interested parties.
The Access Hamilton project will:
- create a northbound two lane priority on Willoughby Street from Liverpool Street right onto Mill Street and left around into Ulster Street. Willoughby Street will be widened for the two northbound lanes and a new island will be put in place replacing the flush median restricting right turns by The Mill.
- To improve safety and capacity along Mill Street the right turn into Pak n Save will be permanently removed.
- Southbound traffic through the route will benefit from road marking changes on Ulster Street/Mill Street intersection where two right turning lanes will be extended leaving one straight ahead lane and the existing left turn lane.
- On Mill Street the left turn slip lane will be extended enabling free left turn traffic heading for Willoughby Street not to be caught up with west bound traffic stopped at the lights.
- Safety and capacity improvements will be made at the intersection of Victoria and Mill streets. On Victoria Street double right turn lanes onto Boundary Road and the bridge will be created.
- The temporarily restricted right turn from Mill Street onto Victoria Street will be made permanent.
| 
