Toowoomba, June 21, 2024 — Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) has launched Queensland’s first Safe Active Street on Pierce Street, South Toowoomba, marking a significant milestone in the state’s transport infrastructure.
Safe Active Street project in Toowoomba, Queensland
The project, officially opened by TRC representatives, is a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing road safety and encouraging active transport within the community.
This pioneering initiative, jointly funded by the Toowoomba Regional Council, integrates world-leading practices and serves as a crucial part of Toowoomba’s West Creek active transport network.
The new street design was enthusiastically introduced to the public, showcasing its innovative features that aim to transform the way residents navigate their neighbourhood.
Cr Trevor Manteufel, spokesperson for TRC’s Transport and Drainage Planning portfolio, highlighted the uniqueness of the project.
“This is an exciting first for Toowoomba and Queensland,” Cr Manteufel said. “The design incorporates a variety of enhancements, including the planting of semi-mature trees, installation of speed bumps, formalised street parking, and new road markings and signage.
Additionally, the introduction of a 30 km/h speed limit is intended to make the street environment safer and more recognisable for all users.”
The design draws inspiration from a successful project in Western Australia and aims to set a new standard for similar initiatives across the state.
Cr Carol Taylor, spokesperson for TRC’s Construction and Maintenance portfolio, praised the hard work of the Council’s construction teams who have played a vital role in bringing the project to life.
To assist residents in adapting to the new street environment, Toowoomba Regional Council has provided detailed information on the updated road rules on its website, specifically under the West Creek – Pierce Street to Alderley Street Cycleway section.
Cr Manteufel stressed the importance of adhering to road safety rules and fostering a spirit of community cooperation. “We remind all residents that the 30 km/h speed limit is crucial for ensuring everyone’s safety. Courteous behaviour on the road can significantly contribute to a safer and more pleasant environment for all.”
The Council extended its gratitude to the community, particularly local residents, for their patience and cooperation during the construction period.
Key Information for Pierce Street Users:
- New Speed Limit: The speed limit is now 30 km/h for all road users.
- Cyclist Guidelines: Cyclists should ride near the centre of the shared travel lane, which is marked by a terracotta-painted zone.
- Driver Guidelines: Drivers must maintain a speed of 30 km/h or less behind cyclists until it is safe to overtake, ensuring a minimum distance of one metre. Drivers are permitted to cross the outer lines of the terracotta zone to safely overtake or pass oncoming vehicles.
- General Road Safety: Always give way to oncoming traffic and maintain safe and courteous driving or riding practices.
The Pierce Street Safe Active Street project is proudly supported by the Queensland Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.
For more information, the Toowoomba Region Sustainable Transport Strategy is available here.
News and images source: Toowoomba Regional Council website
