Improved pedestrian and cycling amenity is at the heart of the new safety project that Ballina Shire Council is set to commence in late April 2021.
The Lighthouse Parade Pedestrian Precinct and Road Safety Project will improve safety on both the road and shared path of Lighthouse Parade, East Ballina.
Mayor David Wright, explained Lighthouse Parade as a gateway to the East Ballina recreational zone. "Lighthouse Parade is characterised by a residential neighbourhood, the Ballina Surf Club, the Marine Rescue facility, north wall, beach and open spaces. The recreational zone is used for swimming, surfing, fishing, walking, cycling, and access to community meeting and dining spaces," said Mayor Wright.
The project along the 500 metre length of Lighthouse Parade to Fenwick Drive aims to improve the visual amenity and safety with kerb and guttering, car parking, and traffic calming devices.
"The existing fencing alongside the shared path will be replaced with formalised kerb and guttering, and will provide space from the kerb to the edge of the shared path. This will provide safe clearance from parked cars and prevent vehicles from obstructing the shared path," added Mayor Wright.
A 'High Pedestrian Activity' zone will also be introduced along Lighthouse Parade. This will include a flat top road hump, midway along Lighthouse Parade, to assist in slowing traffic together with 'High Pedestrian Activity' signage, and posted speeds will be reduced from 50km/h to 40km/h.
These improvements and reduced speed will deliver safer cycling and walking. The project will enhance the overall amenity of Lighthouse Parade and be consistent with the neighbouring natural elements.
Ballina Shire Council has secured State and Federal funding for this project. The total cost of the project is $211,950, with funding through the NSW Safer Roads Program ($103,000), Transport for NSW Network & Safety Services ($36,000), and Federal Government Black Spot Program ($72,550).
Council is committed to completing the works within this financial year (weather and site conditions permitting).
For further information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 864 444.
