By Matthew Sims
A safer crossing for Altona Meadows residents will soon arrive for those crossing Point Cook Road at Central Avenue.
The state and federal governments will deliver two sets of traffic lights, new pedestrian operated signals and raised pedestrian crossings at the intersection of Point Cook Road and Central Avenue.
Delivered via the state and federal government’s joint $3 billion Road Safety Program, the project will also include the installation of PUFFIN technology, which will detect pedestrians waiting at the signals and automatically adjust the amount of time pedestrians need to safely cross the road.
Crews will also install new footpaths and fencing, upgrade bike line marking and complete resurfacing works as part of the project, which is scheduled for completion in early 2023.
Roads and Road Safety Minister Ben Carroll said the works will make the intersection a safer place for pedestirans to cross.
“Point Cook Road provides a vital connection between Point Cook and Altona Meadows, as well as the Princes Freeway and these projects will make it safer for all road users,” he said.
“We know pedestrians are among our most vulnerable road users.”
Altona MP Jill Hennessy said Altona Meadows residents and visitors to the area will welcome the state and federal governments’ investment in the area’s safety.
“I’ve lobbied for improvements to this intersection for a long time,” she said.
Gellibrand MP Tim Watts said the investment is the result of listening to local feedback.
“This technology will also ensure everyone has ample time to get across,” he said.
The works will complement the $15.2 million upgrade of the Point Cook Road and Sneydes Road intersection, which will include service relocation works, the installation of new traffic lights and pedestrian crossings, the widening of Point Cook Road, the creation of new lanes and upgrades to existing shared user pathways, with works set to commence next year.
