Road safety upgrades close to complete in Torquay

TWO high-risk road crossings in Torquay will be safer for pedestrians and road users thanks to the federal government’s 2023/24 Black Spot Program.

New raised pedestrian crossings are being installed on Beach Road near Taylors Park and at Letham Lane, while extensions have been made to roundabouts, raised crossings and dedicated cycle lanes along Fischer Street.

Federal Corangamite MP Libby Coker joined Surf Coast Shire council deputy mayor Mike Bodsworth earlier this week to celebrate the advancement of road upgrades in Torquay.

Ms Coker said the upgrades at the busy Taylors Park crossing reflected a commitment to building safer roads, particularly in high-use areas often used by families and children on bikes.

“Road safety is a matter that impacts all of us, each and every day.

“This investment demonstrates the Albanese Labor government’s commitment to building safer roads and reducing the crushing impacts of road trauma.

“I’d like to thank Surf Coast Shire council for working closely with us to deliver important road upgrades for our local communities.”

The completion of works follows the government’s substantial funding increase for future rounds of the Black Spot Program, which has increased from $110 million to $150 million per year.

 

Shire deputy mayor Mike Bodsworth thanked the government for funding these “vital road safety works”.

“Making roads safer at intersections is a strategic focus of our Road Safety Strategy.

“We know this intersection [on Beach Road, Taylors Park] is used a lot by families and children, so this raised pedestrian crossing will make it easier for them to cross the road safely and encourage some more active transport around Torquay.”

Works are expected to be complete early next week.

For more information on the Australian government’s Black Spot Program, or to nominate a black spot, visit investment.infrastructure.gov.au