BRIDGE AT ORATIA

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21462, 8 April 1933, Page 12

BRIDGE AT ORATIA

NEARING COMPLETION Tho work of constructing a new concrete bridge and approaches over tho Gratia Stream, on the main North Road, which was commenced on November 1, is nearing completion. The bridge is being built to replace a narrow wooden otic, sufficient to carry only one-way traffic, which had been the scene or a number of accidents. Traffic is now permissible over tho bridge, advice to this effect having been received from the Automobile Association. Tho concreting of tho approaches has not yet been carried out, in order to allow the filling to consolidate. The bridge will be closed again to traffic probably at the end of tho month for about four weeks while the concreting is being done. The bridge is constructed on lines somewhat similar to that over the W hau creek, incorporating a modern principle in reinforced concrete bridyr design. It is being constructed b\ private contract under supervision 01 the Main Highways Board, and eight contributing local bodies. Of the contract price, £2997, the Highways Hoard is providing (33 per cent, the remainder being divided among tlu local bodies.

The carriage-way on the bridge is yjtt. wide and tho footpaths each side are 6ft. wide. Tho road surface on the bridge is yet to be covered to an even depth of 2in. with bituminous concrete.