Speed limits up for discussion
Speed limit changes on Hamilton’s roads up for discussion, and the public are being encouraged to have their say.
The stretch of Gordonton Road between Wairere Drive and Thomas Road has been fraught with crashes, and Hamilton City Council is considering lowering the section’s speed limit from 80kmh to a constant 60kmh.
A variable 60kmh speed limit has been in place at the intersection between Gordonton and Thomas roads since late 2017.
It is triggered when vehicles turn in or out of Thomas Rd.
‘‘The variable 60kmh speed limit we’ve had on Gordonton Road has worked well in lowering speed in this area, reduced the severity of injury to people in crashes, and has good community support,’’ growth and infrastructure committee chair Dave Macpherson said.
‘‘Engagement with the community, residents in the area, and key interested parties has shown general support for the proposed changes, and I encourage people to share their views with us through this formal consultation period.’’
That period runs until July 5, with the public being able to give feedback online at hamilton.govt.nz/haveyoursay, as well as at council libraries or the ground floor reception of the council building at Garden Place.
Council believes that if the speed limits were changed, they would support traffic lights on the corner of Thomas Rd and Gordonton Rd, which are planned for installation by the end of the year.
Additional safety measures are also planned to be installed to work with the reduced speed limit, including raised safety platforms, flush median and street lighting.
Going forward, council also wants to discuss a more costeffective way to change speed limits in Hamilton.
Currently, a bylaw review process is required.