Pedestrian crossing change gets green light


Port Phillip Council and VicRoads have developed smart, inexpensive walk signal changes making it safer and easier for pedestrians of all ages to cross six busy Port Phillip intersections.

Port Phillip Council Mayor Amanda Stevens said the signal changes, suggested by Council and being implemented by VicRoads, would particularly benefit children, parents with prams and older pedestrians who may find it more challenging to cross a wide road or make their way to a tram stop.

The smarter signal changes mean the green walk signal will automatically appear most the day so pedestrians won’t have to press the button or wait as long to cross the road. They will also have more time to cross (a few extra seconds up to 18 seconds).

This is all due to clever signalling changes which won’t cause delays for trams or cars. The automatic green signal will only appear when it is safe for pedestrians to cross at times when vehicles were already able to turn, while giving way to pedestrians. The shorter waiting times are expected to reduce “jaywalking” by reducing the wait for walkers.

“Twenty-six pedestrians have received serious injuries requiring hospitalisation at these intersections over the past five years. A longer crossing time can make a big difference to someone using a mobility aid or pushing a pram,” Cr Stevens said. “This simple concept brings big benefits and we will continue our collaboration with VicRoads so this improvement can be extended to other busy signalised crossings in Port Phillip.”

Port Phillip Council provided $30,000 towards the “Greenlight for Pedestrians” project to be implemented at the intersections of: St Kilda Road and High Street/Domain Road/Arthur Street/Commercial Street and Fitzroy Street/Grey Street and Kings Way/Albert Street. The funding supports Council’s strong commitment to encouraging sustainable transport choices.

VicRoads Director of Transport and Planning Nicholas Fisher said VicRoads supports improved pedestrian facilities, while ensuring 'green' time is balanced for all road users including drivers, trams, cyclists and pedestrians.

“VicRoads will continue to work with Port Phillip Council to investigate potential improvements to traffic signals in Port Phillip. Any improvement proposals will be considered for funding under a future program,” Mr Fisher said.

Director of Orthopaedic Surgery at The Alfred Susan Liew said she strongly supported Council’s efforts to make walking safer for all community members.

“This is a fantastic precursor to Walk Safely to School Day on 22 May,” said A/Prof Liew, who is also a director of the Pedestrian Council of Australia.

“My patients include pedestrians who have been injured by cars so it’s wonderful that Port Phillip Council is sending a powerful safety message about how important walkers are. Our children should be able to cross the road safely and I hope this initiative will encourage more people of all ages to enjoy the many health benefits of walking.”

Cr Stevens thanked the City of Melbourne for supporting changes at the St Kilda Road intersections it shares with the City of Port Phillip. Activating “auto on”, where the greenlight appears without the button being pushed when the signal cycle is sufficiently long, is now an action in Melbourne’s new Walking Plan.

For more information visit Port Phillip Council