4 April 2024
Southern Downs Regional Council is commencing important upgrades to the pedestrian crossings in the Warwick CBD that will enhance the business centre’s safety, liveability and economic growth potential.
Funded under the Australian Government’s Black Spot Program, administered through the Queensland Government’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, 24 crossings on Palmerin, Guy, Grafton and King Streets will be upgraded to raised or level priority pedestrian zebra crossings following ongoing safety concerns.
Council’s Chief Executive Officer Dave Burges welcomed the upgrades and said the project was a proactive step forward towards improving pedestrian safety, beautifying the area and bolstering local business.
“Council has taken a holistic approach to the future of Warwick’s CBD with consideration of safety to pedestrians and road users and business growth,” Mr Burges said.
“The upcoming safety revamp will harmonise the precinct for everyone and is a substantial investment in building safer roads and a better streetscape.
“Prompted by community safety concerns, the new priority pedestrian crossings will clarify right of way between pedestrians and motorists to enhance the safety for all road users, particularly the vulnerable and elderly accessing nearby shops and services.
“By implementing these safety measures, Council is ensuring that pedestrians will be able to navigate crossings confidently, and drivers will understand their responsibilities in relation to pedestrians, which will contribute to a safer and more efficient urban environment.
“Council will make every effort to minimise impacts to the local community. Traffic management and signage will direct people walking, riding and driving through the CBD, and Council will continue to monitor traffic and construction conditions throughout the project.
“Council’s program for maintaining and improving our region’s roads is a comprehensive body of work with many moving parts and the Black Spot Program makes it possible to deliver beneficial projects without expense to the ratepayer.”
This $1.6m project will also include upgrades to footpaths, kerb ramps, advanced warning signage, tactile indicators and new energy efficient solar lighting.
The speed limit on Palmerin Street from Percy to Fitzroy Street and Guy Street from Percy to Fitzroy Street will be standardised to 40km/hr.
Residents and businesses near the intersections may at times experience increased noise, truck movements, dust, temporary loss of parking and changes in traffic conditions, including minor traffic delays, reduced speed limits, and temporary road and lane closures.
Works are expected to commence in April and be completed in late June 2024, weather and site conditions permitting. Construction will predominately take place at night between 6pm and 3am, with short periods of day works.
Council will provide advance notification of any particularly impactful works required throughout the construction period and appreciates the community’s cooperation and patience.
Regular updates will be posted on Council’s Facebook site and at
https://www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/roads-infrastructure/current-and-future-road-works.
Project Highlights
• Harmonisation of 24 pedestrian crossings to improve pedestrian and road user safety by enhancing visibility for pedestrian and road users.
• Improvements to disability access with the upgrade of surrounding footpaths, kerb ramps, advanced waring signage and tactile indicators.
• Installation of 48 new energy efficient solar lights.
Funding for the Warwick CBD crossings has been provided by the Australian Government’s Black Spot Program.
Last edited date 15 Apr 2024