Families crossing Gawler’s busy Lyndoch Road are set be safer with works to install a pedestrian actuated (push button) crossing commencing next Monday, 16 September.
Immanuel Lutheran School students had been crossing an existing koala crossing, but a lack of signage has raised concerns from the school and its community.
Member for Light, Tony Piccolo MP, said the school has reported several incidents where motorists have failed to stop at the crossing, and is pleased the Department of Infrastructure and Transport is upgrading the crossing.
“I understand mistakes can happen when driving through a school crossing, especially when it is peak hour and a lot of things are going on, but the lives of children and families are at stake,” said Mr Piccolo.
“With the state of traffic on this road, the flashing light currently in place no longer meet the requirements and criteria required, so the installation of these traffic lights will capture more eyes and significantly improve the safety of this crossing for everyone on the road.”
Principal Daryl Trigg is “enormously grateful for everyone involved”, including Mr Piccolo and all levels of Government.
“This is a major step forward for our kids being safe and also for motorists to know what is actually required when approaching because some are unsure what the rules are,” Mr Trigg said.
“This crossing doesn’t currently work during the high traffic, even when we have people overseeing the crossing.
“There is too much overload for motorists to recognise the flashing lights and see if anyone is standing waiting to cross.”
The project will also include pavement resurfacing for the extent of the works area, upgrades to existing street lighting and new line marking and road signage.
These works are being delivered as part of the $168 million Road Safety Program – jointly funded by the Federal (50%) and South Australian (50%) governments over three years, with $37 million dedicated to improving pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Lyndoch Road will remain open to traffic at all times during works, which are expected to be completed in mid-October.
Workers will be in operation from 8am to 5pm on weekdays along with, when required, night works from 7pm to 6am and Saturday works.