Speed slowed on highway road

CARS heading through the heart of Smythesdale are now being made to drive a little slower with the speed limit reduced on that section of the Glenelg Highway.

New signage installed late last month has dropped the legal speed from 60kph to 50kph between the Brooke Street businesses and Verdon Street.

The reduction arrived after unofficial safer crossing signage was erected at the thoroughfare to highlight the curb extension for shorter walks across the road, which was taken down after nearly a month.

The sign’s creator Lin Hocking-Turnbull said although a pedestrian crossing is still needed, she’s happy to see the road made a little safer.

“The majority of people are happy with it,” she said. “We still need a pedestrian crossing, but this is a great start and a pretty easy fix.

“Ten kilometres off the speed limit is going to make a heck of a difference so we’re pleased with it. It’s where the main foot traffic is in Smythesdale.

“It may even help the traders because with people driving a bit slower they can really see what’s there.”

Installed by the VicRoads who manage the highway, the reduction arrived later than the initially-projected six weeks after the safer crossing signage’s removal in March.

Ms Hocking-Turnbull said she’s just glad to see it installed.

“Some people got a bit frustrated, but I think VicRoads have been awfully busy with roads all over the state at the moment,” she said.

A pedestrian crossing at the extended curb, located between the Rustic Edge and Thru the Gate cafes, is in the works as part of Golden Plains Shire’s Northern Streetscapes Project.

The municipality’s director of infrastructure and environment Phil Josipovic said although a date has not been confirmed for the crossing’s installation, the project is set to see further developments.

“Council is currently in the process of developing an implementation plan to sequence the detailed design and delivery of upgrade works outlined in the Northern Streetscapes Framework Plan 2022,” he said.

“Council is seeking additional funding to complement the $650,000 contribution from Berrybank Wind Farm and $650,000 contribution from council to fund this project, and is currently preparing an expression of interest for a new funding program opened by the Federal Government this week.

“In addition to the speed reductions in Smythesdale, Linton and Teesdale, when fully implemented, the elements identified in the Northern Streetscapes Framework Plan such as traffic calming, further speed reductions, pedestrian crossings and bicycle related infrastructure, will all lend themselves to improved safety for all road users.”