Glen Innes Severn Council Deputy Mayor Carol Sparks, left, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Director of Infrastructure Services Keith Appleby at the site on the New England Highway where one of the three new crossings will be built.
Thursday, 3 August 2017
CROSSING the New England Highway in Glen Innes will soon get a lot easier, with $65,500 in NSW Government funding secured to construct three new pedestrian crossings to provide safer options for the local community.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall today announced the funding for Glen Innes Severn Council to undertake works on several crossing points across the New England Highway at Meade, Cross and Glasson Streets.
“These crossings have been highlighted by the local community as some of the more difficult areas to safely cross, especially for senior citizens,” Mr Marshall said.
“The existing crossing at Meade Street is very close to the roundabout, which presents additional distractions for drivers navigating the turn. This funding will create a new crossing further away from the roundabout, giving motorists and pedestrians extra time to react.
“Two entirely new crossings and refuge islands at Cross and Glasson Streets will also be built. Currently there is no pathway at all and pedestrians must surmount a steep gutter and grassy median strip, which is particularly difficult in the rain.
“Whether you’re pushing a pram, have limited mobility or are just in a rush, this will reduce hazards for everyone crossing this busy highway.”
Glen Innes Severn Council General Manager Hein Basson said these areas were selected for attention after thorough community consultation.
“Council is very grateful for the funding, as it will assist pursuing our pedestrian access mobility program,” Mr Basson said.
“We’re now in a position to fix those difficult areas, making it easy for all people to get around town.”
The funding has been provided by the NSW Government’s Walking and Cycling Program – a $62 million commitment to improve transport options across the state.