Slower speeds of 40km/h have been proposed for Wangaratta’s central business district to improve safety for pedestrians.
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The council has released its plans at its office and online to gauge the reaction from the public.
The 40km/h zones would be put in place at four new pedestrian zebra crossings – one on each of Reid and Ovens streets and two on Ford Street outside Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre and St Patrick’s Cathedral.
Infrastructure Services director Alan Clark said the zebra crossings were needed after community members raised concerns about difficulties walking around and across CBD streets.
He said motorists were also confused by the variety of speed limits in the city.
“We currently have a mix across our roads of time-based school speed zones, permanent 40km/h, 50km/h and 60km/h that can cause confusion,” he said.
“Our CBD contains a mix of council roads and roads managed by VicRoads, so we need to work together in coming up with ways that we can improve the situation for pedestrians and for our community.”
We need to work together in coming up with ways that we can improve the situation for pedestrians.
- Infrastructure Services director Alan Clark
Two other pedestrian crossings will be created as part of the $1.41 million upgrade to Ovens Street, which started work this week.
It also includes a tree-lined median strips and better lighting.
A section of Ovens Street next to King George V Gardens will be closed until Febraury 25.
Mayor Dean Rees warned of disruptions over the next few months.
“Ovens Street will be a shaded, pedestrian-friendly link that’s welcoming for locals and visitors,” he said.
“It will be a huge lift for our city centre and deliver better connectivity.
“There will be more trees than are currently in the street, giving more shade.”
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