By Cameron Weston
CHILDREN crossing one of Hobsons Bay’s busiest roads on their way to school will do so more safely after a new crossing was installed.
The crossing, on Melbourne Rd outside Williamstown North Primary School, was last week officially opened by Premier Steve Bracks, the member for Williamstown.
It includes pedestrian activated traffic lights, ensuring traffic comes to a complete stop as pedestrians – parents and school children in particular – cross the busy road.
Mr Bracks said the project cost $170,000 and was part of the State Government’s ‘Linking Victoria’ program.
“Melbourne Rd is an arterial road and carries more than 25,000 vehicles a day,” he said.
“With such high traffic volumes it is important pedestrians are provided with safe places to cross.
“The new crossing signals will improve pedestrian access to the school, activity centre, bus stops and strain station.”
Williamstown North Primary School principal Neil Sproal said the signals had been installed after years of lobbying VicRoads, Hobsons Bay City Council and Mr Bracks’ office by the school and concerned parents.
“We are now very comfortable that the crossing we have is the safest option that could be provided.
“It actually adds a level of safety outside the supervised times as well.
“We know that any family coming to the school early or out of school times can get across the road safely.
“That was probably one of our major concerns.”
Mr Sproal said the crossing would also be effective at stopping traffic when the school crossing flags are not out in place.
He said the school also planned to have two extra supervisors at the crossing every day to further improve pedestrian safety.