Students have returned to Immanuel Lutheran School for Term 4 today with a safer way to cross Lyndoch Road following the new pedestrian actuated crossing being switched on.

After receiving complaints from the school and families regarding safety concerns for the old koala crossing, Member for Light, Tony Piccolo MP, is pleased the State Government through the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) have upgraded the crossing.

“We know how chaotic school crossings can be during peak hours, especially on Lyndoch Road given the increase in traffic over the years,” said Mr Piccolo.

“But we must remember that the lives of children and their families are at risk, and the old flashing lights that were in place no longer met the safety requirements.

“The installation of traffic lights will catch more attention, leave no confusion for motorists and pedestrians in terms of giving way and significantly enhance safety for everyone on the road.

“I know many residents have witnessed DIT staff working long hours on this crossing, and I thank the staff for ensuring works were started and finished within four weeks to limit traffic delays and deliver the upgrade in time for the return to school.”

These works have been 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.

Principal Daryl Trigg thanked Mr Piccolo, DIT and Town of Gawler for their involvement in delivering the project, along with the community for their patience.

“We can be confident now that kids in the community can cross safely at any time – not just the 15-20 minutes the old crossing was staffed with lollypops in the morning and afternoon,” said Mr Trigg.

“Over a number of years, there has been a significant number of near misses and we didn’t really understand the significance of it until we installed cameras and saw just how close some of the incidences have been – which is nobody’s fault, it’s just been general confusion about the rules from kids and drivers.

“It can be easy to miss things while driving as there is plenty going on, but these traffic lights now make it clear and easy for everyone to know when to stop and go.”

Town of Gawler Mayor Karen Redman said the upgrade is a significant step towards enhancing the safety of our children as they travel to and from school, extending the Council’s gratitude to the Department for Infrastructure and Transport for their leadership on this project.

“By collaborating with the project team and providing essential observations and technical advice, we’ve ensured this crossing meets the needs of our community,” said Mayor Redman.

“The successful upgrade of the Lyndoch Road pedestrian crossing is a clear example of the impact collaboration can have on community safety initiatives.

“The council’s detailed site observations and technical assistance were crucial in guiding this project to fruition.”

“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when we work together.

“The upgraded crossing not only increases safety for pedestrians but also supports our goal of encouraging more students to walk to school, fostering a healthier, more active lifestyle.”