Aerotech Connector expected to open by late summer: official

The roundabout at the top of the Aerotech Connector at Exit 5A is seen in this dashcam photo. (Dagley Media photo)

WELLINGTON: The much-anticipated opening of the Aerotech Connector in Wellington is just months away.

As work is progressing on the construction of the roundabout at Hwy 2 and the Connector, the date for the opening is getting closer.

The roundabout at the top of the connector at Exit 5A/Aerotech Park exit has been open for a few months already.

Currently, motorists go through part of the roundabout with the roads up tot he Connector itself blocked by pylons.

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According to Gray Andrea, spokesman with the Department of Public Works, he said work is on schedule at the Aerotech Connector project.

“We are anticipating opening the roundabout on Highway 2 (Wellington by Sunnylea Road) in early summer,” he said.

What does that mean for the Connector as a whole being open to residents for use?

“The connector will be fully opened to the public by late summer of this year,” said Andrea.

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Video from a dashcam of the completed roundabout at Exit 5A by Dagley Media.

In mid-2020 work began on the project with some clearing work done at the site, adjacent to Hwy 2 and Oaken Hills in Wellington.

The cost of the Aerotech Connector was estimated to be $21 million. This includes the construction of five kilometre of road, roundabouts, and an active transportation trail. However that estimated cost increased in 2022 by almost $12 million.

The increase in the project cost was a result of the management and removal of sulphide-bearing rock material.