A reduced permanent speed limit of 40km/h on Belmore Street and several speed cushions will also be installed on approaches to Belmore Street in Orr, Piper and Witt Street.
A major part of the project will see RRV rebuild a 400-metre section of the road between the Yarrawonga-Mulwala Bridge and Piper Street, providing a smoother, safer surface for all road users.
With traffic congestion already a problem on Belmore Street many people published their frustration about the expectant slowing of traffic from more pedestrian crossings and reduced speed limits on the Chronicle’s Facebook page last week.
Regional Director (Hume), Department of Transport Steve Bowmaker said RRV have worked closely with Moira Shire Council on this project and identified opportunities to improve safety for vulnerable road users including pedestrians and cyclists in a high-volume traffic area.
“We completed a full assessment of Belmore Street and found this section of the road required a pavement rehabilitation due to significant deterioration.
“The assessment revealed additional safety improvements, such as installing zebra crossings and the safer speed reduction, would improve safety for all road users including pedestrians and cyclists.”
Mr Bowmaker said that RRV recently engaged with businesses on the delivery of the planned works and received positive feedback despite many businesses saying they only knew of the project the week before after a flyer was dropped in on their front counters.
Mr Bowmaker also confirmed the pedestrian crossings will not include flashing lights and as a result of the safety improvements eight parking spaces on Belmore Street will be removed to provide appropriate distance for reversing vehicles to the nearby zebra crossing,
The project is expected to take approximately eight weeks around one of the busiest times of the year for Belmore Street traders, although works will pause over Easter and the school holidays.
Improvement works will also include the resealing of parking bays in this area through co-operation with Moira Shire Council.
For regular work updates, visit the RRV website (https://regionalroads.vic.gov.au) and search for Belmore Street Yarrawonga safety improvements.
