Sticky SH2 stretch sorted – sort of

Responding to motorists’ reports that the section of State Highway 2 between Masterton and Carterton was “melting”, NZTA Waka Kotahi deployed contractors on Thursday afternoon and evening to “manage ongoing flushing issues with the road surface”.

This work included applying more chip to the road and the use of water carts to cool its surface, an NZTA spokesperson told the Times-Age, and was done under a rolling block, meaning no lane closures were required.

Contractors also took the opportunity to carry out pothole repairs at the same time.

NZTA advises that contractors “will continue to monitor and proactively manage the road surface over the holiday break”.

“The project will be inspected daily through the holiday period, and plant and labour will be on standby,” the spokesperson said.

If further work is required for the stretch of SH2 during this time, it may include the application of further chip and crusher dust, and water to the road surface to manage any further “road flushing” or “seal bleed”.

“It is not unusual for the first onset of hot weather to create issues with newly constructed chip seals, but this generally settles down as we move through the summer,” the spokesperson explained.

“Even some older seals can ‘liven’ up with the first flush of hot weather. Saturated road surfaces can sometimes also exacerbate ‘bleeding seal’ as water is released from the road.”

As previously reported, further work on the SH2 project – including line marking and the installation of audio tactile road markings – will continue in the New Year.

In the meantime, drivers are encouraged to report any such issues on SH2 to NZTA to enable the agency to ensure any problem areas are investigated and fixed.

Reports can be made to 0800 4 HIGHWAYS [0800 44 44 49].