The Transport Agency is keen to gauge local community support for a proposal to improve road safety on State highway 1 through Oamaru’s North End shopping centre that would see the current zebra crossing replaced by a modern signalised pedestrian crossing.
In the last five years there have been 27 crashes at or near the existing crossing. Around two thirds of these were rear end crashes involving vehicles approaching the crossing.
Transport Agency Spokesperson Murray Clarke says this proposal is all about improving road safety in this area, which is something shopping centre business owners are just as keen to see happen as we are. Improving safety in this area has been discussed for some time and now we have a firm proposal that we are seeking feedback on.
The proposal could see one car park on either side of the road adjacent to the crossing removed to give pedestrians a better view of approaching traffic. It would also make it easer for drivers to see anyone about to step on to the crossing.
“The installation of infrared detectors at the new proposed signalised crossing would make it more efficient and help ensure smoother traffic flows, by cutting down on the amount of times the signals are unnecessarily activated.
Mr Clarke said a Transport Agency staff member will visit businesses owners tomorrow with information about the proposal and to discuss any concerns they have. Information on the proposal is also being sent to those living in the immediate vicinity of the shopping centre.
Information about the proposal and feedback forms can be obtained by phoning the Transport Agency on 03 955 2933, or from the Waitaki District Council reception area from early next week.
Feedback closes on Friday, 24 January 2014.
