Public consultation for a proposed second toll point on the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road closes tomorrow.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) says people have until 5pm on August 28 to get their feedback in.
NZTA is proposing an amendment be made to the toll scheme to allow for an additional toll point enabling a toll to be charged to motorists travelling between Domain Rd Interchange and the Pāpāmoa East Interchange, contributing towards debt repayment for the construction of this state highway.
System Design regional manager Susan Collin encouraged anyone intending to make a submission to do so before the deadline.
“We’re committed to hearing from the community and value your input as part of this important process.”
As a reminder, motorists travelling the full length of the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road (TELTR) will only be charged one toll per journey.
A map showing where the proposed second toll point will be on the TEL. Image / NZTA
Drivers will either incur a charge at the existing toll gantry or at the new toll point when entering or exiting via the Pāpāmoa East Interchange, not both.
In a previous statement, Collins said with the installation of a new toll point, people travelling between the Domain Rd Interchange and the new Pāpāmoa East Interchange would pay a lower toll price than the current toll, reflecting the shorter distance travelled.
The proposed prices being consulted on are $1.10 for light vehicles and $2.80 for heavy vehicles.
Vehicles travelling the full length of the TELTR, between Domain Rd Interchange and Paengaroa Roundabout, would continue to pay current toll prices $2.30 for light vehicles and $5.60 for heavy vehicles.
The new toll point is expected to save $1.7 million in interest payments on the TELTR loan and is estimated to bring the end date forward by 12 months.
People wanting to provide feedback can do so here: Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.