The Government will seriously consider tolling the Tauranga Eastern Link so that construction can be brought forward, Transport Minister Steven Joyce says.
Tolling, coupled with the Government's billion-dollar boost for state highways, could enable construction to start as early as next year, he said today.
"The Tauranga Eastern Link was identified as a road of national significance as it will be a key driver of productivity and growth in the Bay of Plenty and Tauranga -- one of New Zealand's fastest growing areas," Mr Joyce said.
"The new road will boost productivity, improve access to the Port of Tauranga and greatly enhance safety.
"If tolling will bring this forward, then obviously I'm open to that." Mr Joyce said the Transport Agency would put forward a tolling proposal in the new year, which would be considered by Cabinet.
The $455 million project will see a four-lane motorway from Te Maunga to Paengaroa, by-passing Te Puke.
At 23km, it will be New Zealand's longest single four-lane state highway project.
Mr Joyce said work involved two parts -- an upgrade of the existing State Highway 2 between Te Maunga and Domain Road at Papamoa, and a new section of motorway from Domain Road to Paengaroa.
"It is estimated the new road will shave up to 24 minutes off travel time for a return journey between Paengaroa and Te Maunga," Mr Joyce said.
"As well as shortening the journey for motorists and reducing transport costs for business, greater efficiencies and access to the Port of Tauranga will help increase the volume of exports and in turn the growth of the region."
