The Bracks Government is delivering its commitment to improve the safety and efficiency of the Victorian road network, with Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney today announcing $240,000 in the 2007/08 State Budget for pedestrian signals to be installed near the intersection on the Princes Highway West near Hunter Street in Heywood.
The signals will improve safety for pedestrians who have a need to reach shops on either side of the Princes Highway.
“More and more trucks are going through Heywood using the Princes Highway in response to the increasing freight tasks in the region. The town also has an aging population so these signals will definitely improve pedestrian safety in the town,” Ms. Tierney said.
The signals will be located within the main shopping precinct, close to elderly citizens meeting rooms.
Ms. Tierney said that improving the safety, access and efficiency of the road network were key actions in the Bracks Government’s 10-year $10.5 billion Meeting our Transport Challenges, and this latest funding boost was part of putting that plan into action.
Ms. Tierney thanked VicRoads for consulting a number of stakeholders over the placement of the pedestrian signals, including the Heywood Progress Association and the Shire of Glenelg.
“The Bracks Government has listened to these concerns and taken action to improve road safety.
“I would like to thank the local community, including the council and others who have been active in voicing their concerns and support for this project,” Ms. Tierney said.
The signals will incorporate technology to sense when pedestrians have cleared the crossing to reduce delays to vehicles.
Ms. Tierney said the Bracks Government would continue to address road safety concerns and work towards reducing the road toll even further.