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Work on a new raised pedestrian crossing has been finished in Ward Street, the sixth pedestrian-friendly project completed in the city in recent months.
Funded by the Transport Accident CommissionLocal Government Small Infrastructure grant, the new “wombat” crossing has been built to make it easier for families attending East Warrnambool Primary School, and the wider community, to cross the street.
The crossing gives pedestrians priority when crossing the road and the raised platform reduces car speed as well as making people walking more visible.
In addition to the new wombat crossing in Ward Street, one was also built in Garden Street in July, with pedestrian refuges on Aitkins Road near the playground, Selby Road near Our Lady Help of Christians Primary School and Zeigler Parade near the Allansford Kindergarten also completed along with multiple upgrades in Merrivale Drive.
The Merrivale Drive project was funded by Department of Transport- Safe Travel in Local Streets grant.
Warrnambool Mayor Vicki Jellie said that Council was committed to making the city safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
“Thousands of people helped to create our longterm vision - the W2040 Plan – with safer streets and footpaths as well as encouraging active transport key themes,” she said.
“We all know the psychical, mental and emotional benefits of walking or cycling regularly, and by working this into your everyday life – the benefits compound.
“Especially with children. Most of them want to walk to school. It’s great for their confidence and they like to talk with their friends, and they are developing healthy habits at the same time.
“Council has collaborated closely with schools to identify what can be done to make walking and cycling a more attractive option for their students, but there’s always more work to be done, and we will continue to improve our streets and footpaths each year.
“In some instances where the Victorian Government controls a road instead of Council, we will keep working with schools and communities to encourage the relevant authorities to make the necessary upgrades to improve conditions for pedestrians.
“Infrastructure is one thing, but it’s important to remember that we all have a part to play to keep each other safe on our streets.
Whether you’re walking, cycling or driving please slow down and make eye contact at intersections and crossings.”