Horsham Rural City Council will begin upgrade works on 5 November at the intersection of Firebrace Street and Baker Street in the Horsham CBD, as part of a regional road safety program funded by the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and Active Transport Fund.
This project is jointly funded by the Transport Accident Commission's Safe Local Roads and Streets Program and the Australian Government's Active Transport Fund, supporting the delivery of safer, more accessible infrastructure for cyclists, pedestrians, and local road users.
This stage of the project addresses the need for safer pedestrian crossings on wide sections of roads in the CBD. Subsequent stages will also support Council's aim under the Active Transport Fund, to deliver safe access for cyclists and pedestrians on the eastern edge of the CBD, encouraging more people to walk and cycle safely through this area.
To improve safety and accessibility, the works will include:
- Installation of new kerb and channel at the intersection
- Pedestrian outstands on Firebrace Street
- Construction of new concrete footpaths
- Landscaping works, including a new median strip with vegetation to improve street aesthetics
- Road resurfacing
- Line marking
Kerb extensions on O'Callaghans Parade and Firebrace Street will help to reduce vehicle speeds and shorten crossing distances for pedestrians, creating a safer environment for everyone using the intersection.
There will be minimal disruption to traffic, with access to businesses maintained for road users and pedestrians at all times. Traffic controllers will be on site to manage vehicle and pedestrian movements safely.
Earlier this year, Horsham Rural City Council successfully secured funding for multiple road, cycling, and pedestrian safety projects across the municipality under the same program.
"Our goal is to make our roads, footpaths and cycleways safer for everyone," said Acting Mayor Brian Klowss, "we are grateful for everyone's patience and cooperation while these important improvements are carried out."
Business owners and occupiers in the immediate area will soon receive a notice of works with more details about timing and access.
