Waipā District Council considers $220 million Cambridge bridge project

The Waipā District Council is evaluating funding options for a new bridge crossing the Waikato River to address traffic and resilience issues in Cambridge. Estimates for the project range from $140 million to $220 million.

Proposed funding models through rates could significantly impact local residents. One scenario suggests a 26 per cent rates increase if Cambridge bears the cost alone, while sharing the burden with Maungatautari ratepayers could result in a 22 per cent increase. Spreading the cost district-wide would imply a 14 per cent increase.

Council members have expressed differing views on the necessity and timing of the project. Cambridge Community Board chair Charlotte FitzPatrick raised concerns regarding the affordability of living and operating in the town under such increases. Meanwhile, Councillor Shane Walsh argued that “doing nothing” should remain an option until the scale of the traffic problem is more clearly defined.

Waipā Mayor Mike Pettit advocated for immediate investment, noting that costs are likely to rise in the future. The project is part of a 30-year transport plan, with a draft due for committee review on October 22 and public consultation scheduled for late October.