Construction is set to begin on a new signalised pedestrian intersection along High St, between Maude and Corio Sts.
As part of a project to improve pedestrian safety in Shepparton, The News understands Regional Roads Victoria is installing pedestrian-operated signals at a new crossing point on High St between Maude and Corio Sts.
The aim is to create a safe pedestrian crossing, with the hope that the lights will slow down drivers including B-Doubles, The News understands.
The crossing is part of $1.2million Shepparton Pedestrian Improvements Project; a joint initiative between Regional Roads Victoria and Greater Shepparton City Council.
The News understands on-the-ground works are scheduled to start next Monday and due for completion by the end of April, weather depending.
Regional Roads Victoria acting regional director Nathan Matthews said the authority was working with the council ‘‘to make it safer and easier for pedestrians to get from A to B’’.
‘‘We know that pedestrians are our most vulnerable road users... that’s why we’re providing safer crossing options in the busy and growing Shepparton CBD,’’ Mr Matthews said.
Council Infrastructure director Phil Hoare said council was aware Regional Roads Victoria was installing pedestrian-operated traffic signals in High St, as part of a broader pedestrian-safety initiative.
‘‘Council has had discussions with RRV in relation to landscaping works at this location, however, the project is being delivered solely by RRV as High St is the responsibility and jurisdiction of RRV.’’
If any members of the community require details of the project they should make contact with RRV, Mr Hoare said.
Discussing CBD vacancy rates last month, the council described High St as a challenge in filling shops with a focus on working towards the first stage of the long-awaited bypass project, set to remove trucks from CBD traffic.
The Shepparton Pedestrian Improvements Project is set to include the creation of raised pedestrian platforms at the Maude and Vaughan St intersection, some raised zebra-style pedestrian crossings, known as ‘‘wombat crossings’’ on Fryers, North and Corio Sts.
The Maude and Fryers St intersection will be raised as part of this program, while a pedestrian crossing will be delivered by the council in St Georges Rd as part of this project, The News understands.
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