One of the few remaining intersections on State Highway 1 in North Dunedin that isn't controlled by traffic signals will have its own signals by Christmas.
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has just started work on installing traffic signals on the Great King Street and Howe Street intersection at a cost of around $180,000.
NZTA Otago-Southland State Highways Operations Manager Roger Bailey says a pedestrian crossing by the George Street Normal School will be removed when the traffic signals are switched on in mid December. When this happens pedestrians can look forward to being able to cross a busy two-lane section of highway with the extra safety of signalised crossing points.
“When the existing pedestrian crossing is removed a kerbside drop-off and pick-up area will be provided for parents with children attending George Street Normal School. Pedestrian safety, particularly for school children in the area as well as students will be improved once the traffic signals are operating. They will also offer a much higher margin of safety for motorists and cyclists using this busy intersection.”
Of the four people seriously injured in crashes at this intersection in the last five years, two of them were pedestrians.
Mr Bailey says road users and pedestrians can expect some minor disruptions while this work is being done although every effort will be made to keep these to a minimum. We appreciate the patience of road users, pedestrians and those living and working in the area while this important work is carried out.
