A major project to replace rail level crossings in Takanini and Glen Innes in New Zealand with eight new bridges has started.
Pre-construction works kicked off this week, with main construction of new bridges at Takanini, Te Mahia and Glen Innes stations commencing in summer.
Auckland Transport said the project will support more frequent trains while improving safety, keeping traffic moving and enhancing urban areas.
“Level crossing removals are part of Auckland Transport and KiwiRail’s plan to be able to carry increasing numbers of people on quicker, even more frequent, easy train services during the 30 years after City Rail Link opens,” a spokesperson said.
Between 2013 and 2025 a total of 1242 level crossing collisions and near-miss events were recorded in Auckland. Of these, barrier arm collisions accounted for 68 per cent of all incidents.
Auckland Council and the Government, through the New Zealand Transport Agency, have brought forward funding to allow the delivery of the Takanini and Glen Innes level crossing removal projects.
Auckland Transport is also planning how best to replace level crossings on the Western Line, to prepare for more trains to support future passenger growth.
In addition to work starting on station bridges, essential work on the road bridges is underway.
This includes property acquisition, geotechnical investigations, further developing designs of the new bridges, tendering for a construction contractor and further community engagement in the coming months.
Auckland Transport Chief Executive Dean Kimpton said a number of level crossings have been, or will be, removed to be ready for more frequent trains when City Rail Link opens.
This means the average traffic wait time at a level crossing will be similar to an intersection with traffic lights.
“We’re now getting on with the next stage of level crossing removals in Takanini and Glen Innes to support future increases in train frequencies,” he said.
“People living near rail lines will find it safer and easier to get around their communities – whether they’re walking, biking, driving or catching the train.
“Auckland Transport has progressed from funding approval to breaking ground for the projects in just six months, there’s a lot of work to get done but people can now see things are happening.”
KiwiRail’s Chief Metro and Capital Programme Officer David Gordon said the new bridges will improve safety for both those using the road and those on rail.
“Collisions and near misses at level crossings can take a huge toll on all those involved, including emergency services and train drivers.
“By replacing level crossings with bridges, we reduce congestion and remove the risk of people behaving unsafely at level crossings. The new bridges are a crucial investment that will provide Aucklanders with safer transport options.”
