Roadworks set to start to tackle increased college traffic
A program of works to accommodate the increased traffic generated by the new Greater Shepparton Secondary College is about to start.
The works will involve constructing new footpaths and bus stops along the school frontage on Hawdon St and minor upgrade works at the intersections along Hawdon St including Knight St, Railway Parade and Andrew Fairley Ave.
The works are jointly funded by the Victorian and Australian governments’ Road Safety Program, with construction planned to commence in October, and be completed by school opening in January next year.
Greater Shepparton City Council has been working collaboratively with the Victorian School Building Authority, the Department of Education and Training, and Regional Roads Victoria on many aspects of the college since building commenced last year.
Infrastructure director Phil Hoare said council had done extensive planning for works and changes needed in the area surrounding the school to ensure that safe and appropriate arrangements were in place to support the expected increase in traffic.
The increased student numbers also requires bus stops, cycling and pedestrian paths. During construction traffic management will include periods of partial road closure.
Mr Hoare said work had also been done to understand the changes needed to parking and signage in the streets surrounding the college including a Local Area Traffic Management study which made draft recommendations.
He said council would be actively consulting with local residents and business owners to discuss proposed change.
“We will provide an opportunity for local residents and business owners to meet with our team, review the proposed changes, and provide input to the parking and signage changes,” he said.
“We will be contacting local residents in the near future and organising this consultation. These changes are needed to ensure the area surrounding the school is well equipped to meet the increase in vehicle and foot traffic.”