The NZ Transport Agency has started work on improving safety for pedestrians at the intersection of State Highway 35 Customhouse Street and Gladstone Road by moving a pedestrian crossing point.
“The intersection of Customhouse Street and Gladstone Road, near the Gisborne Central Police Station, is one of Gisborne’s busiest intersections. We’ve received feedback from the public that the existing crossing point was not suitable for those using mobility scooters or pushing prams,” Helen Harris, Journey Manager, Tairawhiti Roads says.
“One of our safety engineers investigated the issue and recommended that the crossing point was moved further down Customhouse Street, where a pedestrian refuge will also be installed.
“Tairawhiti Roads consulted on the new design with community representatives and we were able to secure funding under the NZ Transport Agency’s minor safety improvements budget,” Ms Harris says.
Work on installing the new crossing point and removing the old one started on Monday 31 October and is due to be complete in early December. Until the new crossing point is finished, pedestrians will be directed through the area with temporary signage.
“This area near the Riverside Walkway is a popular one with locals and visitors alike. The new crossing point and pedestrian refuge will help make it safer for all road users – whether they are on foot, scooter or pushing a pram,” Ms Harris says. “It’s a small change for locals to get used to, and once the crossing point is finished, we encourage everyone to make use of it to get safely across this section of Customhouse Street.”
