Greymouth residents are being invited to a public information session to learn more about a range of safety improvements proposed for High Street (State Highway 6) to make the road safer for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) plans to begin work late next month on stage one of a safety upgrade of High Street (State Highway 6), which includes a central flush median to separate traffic lanes, right-turning bays, pedestrian refuges, cycle lanes, a roundabout at the intersection of High Street and Marlborough Street, and improved lighting. The Grey District Council also intends to build a new footpath between Greymouth High School and Buccleugh Street.
NZTA’s West Coast Senior Asset Manager Mark Pinner says the improvements will help to create a more controlled speed environment along this section of the highway which is a key route for long-distance traffic, as well as an important gateway for Greymouth.
“Traffic on High Street is increasing and with greater numbers of pedestrians and cyclists using the road, there is a growing need to improve traffic flows and safety for all users.”
He says the current layout of High Street does not meet the demands of a busy state highway.
A public information session is being held next Tuesday, 23 April from 5pm to 8pm in the Scout Hall to enable those interested in the improvements to meet with NZTA’s consultants to view detailed design plans and discuss any concerns. The plans are also available for viewing at the Grey District Council and Opus International reception desks.
“A central flush median painted down the centre of High Street, from Brunner Street to Marlborough Street, will provide a refuge for traffic waiting to turn right into driveways, while right-turn bays will be marked on High Street at the intersection with Brunner Street, Franklin Street and Buccleugh Street.”
Cycles lanes will also be marked in both directions along High Street.
“With a particularly high number of crashes at the intersection of High Street and Marlborough Street, it is proposed to construct a roundabout at the intersection to help control road user speeds and assist vehicle movements.
Mr Pinner says pedestrians islands will be built within the flush median outside the aquatic centre, at the High Park Motel and at the pedestrian crossing outside Greymouth High School. “These islands will make it safer for pedestrians to cross High Street.”
Future stages of the work will include a new footpath, built by the Grey District Council, linking with the existing pedestrian network; and a lighting upgrade to improve night-time visibility for both motorists and pedestrians.
Work is scheduled to begin next month on stage one, from Brunner Street to Greymouth High School, with construction of the roundabout at Marlborough Street scheduled for 2014, subject to funding availability.
