Representatives from Well-Connected Alliance, Boffa Miskell and Warren and Mahoney at the LABC Architecture Awards ceremony.

The Well-Connected Alliance and urban design and architect partners, Boffa Miskell and Warren and Mahoney, have received international recognition for the Waterview Connection project at the Los Angeles Business Council‘s Architectural Awards on 21 June.

“The Tripartite Award acknowledges the Waterview Connection project was about so much more than the twin 2.4km long road tunnels deep underground. It celebrates significant community amenities and landscape features above ground and the role of infrastructure in supporting good urban design,” said Brett Gliddon, NZ Transport Agency general manager system design and delivery.

“The walking and cycling path network, public open space and environmental design features together withthe stunning structures – including the pedestrian bridges, ventilation stacks and maintenance buildings – create a place the local community can enjoy and be proud of.”

NZTA principal urban design and landscape advisor Sam Bourne said the project is a great example of how to bridge the gap between infrastructure and creating a great place for people.

“These projects take many years to develop and having the project recognised internationally is a credit to all involved,” he said.

The Tripartite Award fosters design and collaboration between sister cities; Los Angeles, Auckland and Guangzhou in China, and recognises commitment to shared urban development and sustainability goals. The first-ever Tripartite Award winners in 2017 were the Urban Design of Yuzhu Area in Guangzhou and the Te Ara I Whiti Light Path in Auckland.

The Well-Connected Alliance includes the Transport Agency, Fletcher Construction, McConnell Dowell, WSP, Beca Infrastructure, Tonkin & Taylor and Japanese construction company Obayashi Corporation. Sub-alliance partners are Auckland-based Wilson Tunnelling and Spanish tunnel controls specialists SICE.

The Waterview Connection project opened to traffic in July 2017 and marked the significant completion of the Western Ring Route, a 48km route through the west of Auckland, connecting Manukau, the city, West Auckland and the North Shore.