Rockhampton Regional Council is improving road safety for motorists and creating greater footpath connectivity for pedestrians in Berserker, thanks to help from the Australian Government through the Black Spots Program.
Roadworks along Rodboro Street from McKean Street to Water Street, Berserker commenced in early June and are expected to conclude in early October.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said the fully funded project was made possible through the Australian Government's program which aims to improve road safety by targeting locations where crashes are occurring or at risk of occurring.
"We are grateful for the continued support of the Australian Government through the Black Spots Program," Mayor Williams said.
"The improvements to Rodboro Street will not only increase road safety for the residents and motorists within that Berserker neighbourhood, but they will also improve it for the wider community, particularly those who frequent the area for sport."
Infrastructure Councillor Marika Taylor said that works are already underway, with the upgrades aimed at addressing safety concerns at several key intersections.
"Following a high number of traffic accidents in recent years, Rodboro Street has been highlighted as needing some improvements, particularly at the intersections of Berserker Street and Dean Street," Cr Taylor said.
"The long, straight stretch can make it difficult for motorists to anticipate upcoming intersections, with crash data showing that most incidents occur when drivers fail to notice these intersections and continue through them at speed.
"The solution is to add splitter islands, mini-roundabouts, increased signage and upgraded lighting to increase visibility of the intersections and to encourage motorists to decrease their speed on approach.
"These solutions should have maximum impact on changing motorists' behaviour while still working within the existing road footprint that wasn't large enough to install a full-sized roundabout."
As an added benefit, Council has also included the construction of a 1.5-metre-wide footpath on Rodboro Street, from McKean Street to Water Street.
"This 1km long path will be an important link for the neighbourhood and become a key local route within Council's Walking and Cycling Strategy," Cr Taylor said.
"Additionally, with three significant sporting fields within walking distance, this is a great time to add the footpath, increasing connectivity and promoting greater pedestrian and cyclist use while ensuring their safety."
The $1.25 million project is expected to take four months to complete.
