On 20 September, Judds Road in Masterton will be closed at the Ngaumutawa Road intersection for up to 12 weeks while KiwiRail carries out a safety upgrade at the level crossing.
Once the work is complete, Judds Road will reopen as one-way only from Ngaumutawa Road.
KiwiRail General Manager Wellington Metro Andy Lyon says following an independent safety review of the Wairarapa Line, the Judds Road level crossing was earmarked for closure, but that was revised to a one-way option after feedback from the community.
“We worked closely with Masterton District Council and Judds Road Steering Group to find a solution that sufficiently addresses safety concerns at the level crossing, but still enables the road to stay open.
“It’s a notorious spot for ‘short-stacking’ where vehicles, especially long vehicles, find themselves sitting over the railway tracks while waiting to turn onto Ngaumutawa Road.
“It’s already a problem, and it would have become more dangerous when we have the quieter, faster and more frequent trains on the line. Making the intersection one-way at Ngaumutawa removes that risk and means the road can stay open.”
The new road layout allows traffic to travel up Judds Road from SH2 as far as the Breadcraft Factory but no further. Signage and islands will be installed to warn traffic of the change and prevent vehicles from crossing the railway lines. However, traffic can continue to turn into Judds Road from Ngaumutawa Road using a one-way system.
The upgraded level crossing will have a pedestrian maze, gates, warning signals and bells to provide a safe, car-free space for walkers and cyclists. In 2027, a single barrier arm will be installed as an additional warning device for traffic entering from Ngaumutawa Road.
“We’re mindful that the one-way option continues to be a concern for the Judds Road Steering Group. For that reason we’ve created a design that meets safety requirements today and lets us get on with the work, but which would enable future changes should the Council wish to revisit a two-way option at a later date.
“We’re grateful for the support from the Council and the community.
“It’s great to have the work for this crossing underway, and all going to plan, we’ll have this construction work wound up and be out of the way by Christmas.”
Judds Road is the last level crossing to be upgraded in Masterton. Safety improvement work has already been completed by KiwiRail at Akura Road, Cornwall Street, Hillcrest Street, Rennall Street, and Ngaumutawa Road.
So far KiwiRail has completed 21 of the 30 level crossing safety upgrades on the Wairarapa Line. The other upgrades are south of Masterton. Safety signals (including barrier arms) will be installed and live from early 2027.