The Dowse interchange warmly received in Western Hills
Western Hills community groups say they are happy with the Dowse interchange project and are looking forward to the project?s completion. The SH2 Dowse to Petone Upgrade project has been completed ahead of schedule after another stage of the Korokoro intersection?s construction was reached. NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) Wellington Regional Director Deborah Hume says the project is working like a well-oiled machine and as a result the SH2 northbound lanes have been moved onto their new permanent route. ?In spite of recent downpours the great planning, fantastic teamwork and good weather till June means the D2P project is ready for the next traffic switch earlier than we thought,? says Dr Hume. The work completed by NZTA has been praised by Normandale Residents association president Peter Matcham. ?In general it has been good, but it?s a bit unfair to judge the changes before they are competed. ?The only problem has been the traffic diverted up from Korokoro, which has made it very difficult to get across during rush hour,? he says. Overall, the association has found that the work has been completed to a quality level and is pleased with the outcome. ?The contractors have handled the work and the traffic problem very well,? says Mr Matcham. Maungaraki Community Association secretary Jim Pryor says residents have been ?impressed? with the project so far. Apart from a build up of traffic at the interchange during rush hour locals have given the project a shining report. ?There hasn?t been any negative feedback, and the odd positive comment. ?The project is going in the right direction,? he says. The interchange has made it much easier for residents to get out of the area ?whichever way they want to go.? In addition, Mr Pryor says getting into Petone through the Dowse interchange is now more convenient. ?In terms of getting out to Petone the interchange has cut minutes off the trip? says Mr Pryor.
