FOOTPATH pavement lights that change colour with traffic lights are being trailled in central Victoria.
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The new initiative from the federal and state governments will see LED tactile pavings be installed at pedestrian crossings in Bendigo and Trafalgar.
The trials of glow-in-the-dark line marking and signage, and high reflectivity paint also being rolled out at other locations across the state.
Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll said driving down road trauma and ensuring more residents make it home safely every day was at the core of the Victorian Government's Road Safety Strategy.
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"Whether it's mandating seatbelts or legislating random breath tests, Victoria has always been at the forefront of road safety with a track record in leading the introduction of lifesaving road safety initiatives," he said.
"We're investing in better and safer infrastructure which includes looking at new and innovative ways to create a safer road environment for motorists and for overrepresented groups including pedestrians."
The footpath pavement lights change colour with the traffic lights, which gives pedestrians a clear visual signal about whether they should stop or go.
Feedback from users is that the larger, bright, in-ground lights are more easily seen than the traditional traffic signals for pedestrians that are positioned across the road.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said one life lost on Australian roads is one too many.
"That's why the Australian Government has committed $3 billion for the nationwide Road Safety Program," he said.
"Our government is committed to keeping our communities safe, while securing our economic recovery."
Mr Joyce said the funding supports fast roll-out of life-saving safety works on rural and regional roads.
The in-ground LED tactile paving is being installed in August at pedestrian intersections in Bendigo.
The changes will provide a clearer signal for pedestrians, including those looking down at the road or on their phone, when it's safe to cross the road.
It looks and functions like ordinary line marking in daylight but emits stored light enhancing its visibility to road users when dark.
For more information go to the Road Safety Program Innovative Package page on Regional Roads Victoria website.
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