High Street in Ararat will soon have a safer pedestrian crossing, with Ararat Rural City Council set to upgrade the existing crossing on High Street near McDonald's to a raised pedestrian crossing.
Ararat Rural City Council will commence works on the upgrade from Tuesday 27 January 2026, at the existing High Street pedestrian crossing between the medical centre and the bus stop. The project will involve construction of a raised wombat crossing, associated drainage works, and new kerb and channel to improve safety and accessibility for people walking to nearby health services, shops, and public transport.
To enable the works to be completed safely and efficiently, the road will be closed at the crossing for the duration of the construction period. Traffic management and detours will be in place, and road users are encouraged to follow signage, allow extra travel time, and take care when moving through the area.
Ararat Rural City Council CEO, Dr Tim Harrison, said the upgrade reflected Council's ongoing focus on making it easier and safer for people to move around Ararat on foot. "This project is about making everyday trips safer and more comfortable for people who are walking to the doctor, catching the bus, or heading into the CBD," Dr Harrison said. "Council has heard consistently from the community that safer crossings and better pedestrian links are a priority, and this upgrade is a practical response to that feedback."
"Council appreciates the patience of residents, businesses, and visitors while these works are underway," Dr Harrison said. "There will be some short-term disruption, but the outcome will be a safer crossing point on one of our busiest streets, supporting people of all ages to move around town with confidence."
