Relief as crossing is funded on notorious road

PEDESTRIAN-operated traffic lights and a raised safety platform will be installed on busy Bendigo-Maryborough Road to make it less hazardous for students going to and from Bendigo Special Development School.

The crossing will also provide a safer connection for people accessing Kangaroo Flat Library as well as Bendigo Creek Trail users.

Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said the $1.354 million project will make a huge difference for people who have long advocated for it.

“This funding will go a long way,” she said. “These are important upgrades, particularly as we know pedestrians are facing increased risk.

“We’re investing in Bendigo and right across the state to ensure that families, students, workers, and everyone who walks our streets can do so safely and easily.”

Bendigo Special Development School principal Kirshy McAinch said the crossing will allow students to not just go to the library, but to use nearby bike tracks and extend their opportunities within the community.

“A big part of what we (teach) at the school is social capability and being able to get out in the community. That’s what this allows us to do, safely,” she said.

“The majority of our students probably won’t ever get their own license, so to have better access to transport and be able to use it safely and effectively, that’s a game changer for them and their families.

“When we get the opportunity to teach the kids how to do that, I know they’ll be super excited.”