Residents of Footscray’s Joseph Road precinct are demanding immediate changes to a nearby intersection following a coroners’ report into the death of a pedestrian there almost two years ago.
Deputy State Corner Paresa Antoniadis Spanos recently released her findings into the death of international student, Frances Jeyann Ramirez, who was struck by two cars at the intersection Hopkins, Hallenstein and Moreland streets on the night of 25 November, 2023.
The 22-year-old from the Phillipines was returning to her apartment in the Joseph Road precinct when she was killed, with Ms Spanos finding that inadequate lighting at the intersection was a contributing factor.
The deputy state corner also noted that despite rapid population growth in the Jospeh Road precinct, “little if anything has been done to address safety of the growing population in the area“.
Responding to the report, the Joseph Road Precinct Action Group (JPAG) said it should be a turning point for road safety in the area.
“For years residents have raised serious concerns about pedestrian and other vulnerable road user’s safety, inadequate lighting, and delayed traffic safety upgrades, concerns that are now formally recognised by the coroner,” a JPAG statement read.
While Ms Spanos recommended Maribyrnong council and the state government collaborate on installing traffic signals and improved street lighting as well as speed limit signs and road markings in the interim, JPAG want the intersection where Ms Ramirez died to be changed immediately.
Their demands include a turning lane for vehicles turning into Hallenstein Street from Hopkins Street and preventing cars from turning right from Hallenstein Street into Hopkins Street until traffic lights are installed.
They also want a 30km/h speed limit for all streets in the Joseph Road precinct and the relocation of the Moreland Street-Hopkins Street bus stops.
Maribyrnong council chief executive Celia Haddock said council would formally respond to the recommendations within the next three months.
“Any loss of life on the roads within our city is heart-breaking. Our condolences are with the family of Ms Ramirez, following this tragic accident,” Ms Haddock said.
A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson also expressed condolences said the department was already working with council to improve road safety in the area.
