Better safety for cyclists and speed reductions through towns were key themes that emerged from VicRoads feedback sessions with communitites along the Midland Highway.
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A review of safety at intersections and new schools were also called for in feedback to VicRoads given through an online survey and at drop-in sessions at Guildford, Dayelsford, Newlyn and Creswick last year.
Commuters, residents and drivers told VicRoads they wanted safer overtaking opportunities between towns, reducing speed from 100km/h to 80km/h in several sections of the highway and a strong interest in the need to improve safety for cyclists.
Bike Bendigo infrastructure group coordinator Chris Corr said developments on highways were a great opportunity to improve cyclist safety.
“There is a great opportunity on highways that should have wider shoulders and it’s important those shoulders are kept clean so cyclists can use it,” he said.
“It is a lot of investment and I understand it takes time but a multi-use shoulder that can be used for other things like breakdowns (would be a good safety feature).”
Regional Roads Victoria western regional director Mal Kersting said it was important to hear from people who use the major transport route regularly.
“We wanted to hear from people who regularly use the Midland Highway between Ballarat and Bendigo to better understand their experiences and help inform any future development plans for this key route,” he said.
“Communities across our region are expected to grow significantly over the next decade so we need to be prepared for the increased traffic volumes that come with that growth.”
When considering a speed limit change, VicRoads works to find a balance between safety and traffic flow.
It analyses a range of factors including vehicle numbers, road design, crash history and the local environment.
“Safety is our top priority, as part of our planning we always explore ways to enhance the safety of drivers, cyclists and pedestrians,” Mr Kersting said.
“(That) is why we're working to deliver improvements such as new bike lanes on Napier Street (Midland Highway) in White Hills.”
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