Wangaratta's CBD will see significant safety upgrades for pedestrians at four key locations in the coming weeks.
The Rural City of Wangaratta council has received funding through the state government's Victorian Safe System Pedestrian Infrastructure Program for the project, to be delivered by O’LEX Civil Construction.
They will install three new raised pedestrian crossings in the CBD, built to current standards and designed to accommodate all vehicles, including buses and trucks.
The locations, improvements, and time lines for work are:
• Ford Street (Murphy Street end): upgrade of the zebra crossing about 40m north of the Murphy Street roundabout from 27 October to 10 November.
• Faithfull Street: new wombat crossing mid-block near Victoria Parade from 11 November to 26 November.
• Ford Street (Ovens Street end): new wombat crossing at the Ovens Street roundabout, replacing the existing zebra crossing from 27 November to 10 December.
• Reid Street: new pedestrian-operated traffic signal will be installed mid-block between Ovens and Murphy Streets (currently out to tender).
Acting Mayor Cr Harvey Benton said the works were essential to create a city centre that is safe and accessible.
"We understand these works will create some temporary inconvenience, and we thank our community for their patience as we deliver these important improvements," he said.
"We are committed to creating a city centre that is safe and accessible.”
Council said during construction, there will be temporary road closures, footpath diversions, and some reduced or restricted parking, with detours will be clearly signed.
While through traffic will be diverted, local access - including for customers - will be maintained wherever possible.
Council said it will work closely with contractors to minimise inconvenience and keep the community informed throughout the project.
Variable Message Signs will be in place from 16 October on Ford Street and 27 October on Faithfull Street to provide advance notice of the changes.
Updates are available at www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/pedestrianimprovements.