Concerns force removal of zebra crossing
A pedestrian refuge island is being installed on Timaru’s busy Selwyn St, following ongoing concerns from a nearby school and police.
Selwyn St, from the intersection with Wai-iti Rd to the Douglas and Grasmere streets roundabout, will be reduced to one lane, and one way, from 9am to 2.30pm on November 14-19 as the zebra crossing is removed.
‘‘These improvements have been designed in response to historic and ongoing safety concerns expressed about the zebra pedestrian crossing by Waimataitai School, police education officers, the South Canterbury Road Safety co-ordinator, and the public,’’ a Timaru District Council spokesperson said.
‘‘The zebra crossing adds a layer of complexity to the intersection, and vehicles stopping (or not stopping) creates conflict between people driving, walking and biking.’’
Replacing the crossing with a refuge pedestrian island was expected to be ‘‘a considerable safety improvement for all road users’’, he said.