Horsham Rural City Council will soon construct a pilot pedestrian crossing at the Firebrace Street and McLachlan Street roundabout.
Scheduled for the weekend of 22 and 23 June 2024, these installations, known as ‘wombat crossings,’ are part of a project aimed at improving the city’s walkability.
Unlike traditional crossings, wombat crossings are raised platforms that act as speed calming measures to provide pedestrians a safe crossing point.
For the pilot phase, these structures will be temporarily pinned down, featuring a small lip — a detail that will not be present in the permanent version.
Council has planned the construction activities to ensure minimal disruption to businesses and traffic flow.
Each section of the road will be closed sequentially during the works, with traffic controllers on-site. Importantly, access for ambulances and emergency vehicles will remain unimpeded throughout the period.
The trial will span six months before the community will play a crucial role in determining the crossings’ future.
Residents are encouraged to share their experiences via the council’s website, starting six weeks post-installation.
All feedback, whether in favour or against the crossings, will be considered before reaching a final verdict.
This initiative reflects HRCC’s commitment to exploring innovative solutions for urban infrastructure challenges, with an emphasis on public participation in shaping the city’s landscape.
