Spot on target

By Tania Martin
MT EVELYN’S notorious pedestrian crossing black-spot could soon get the green light it needs for its long-awaited upgrade.
A pedestrian crossing and lights at the intersection of Wray Crescent and York Road are set to improve the safety of all people using the road and the adjacent Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail.
The Shire of Yarra Ranges last week unveiled the plans for the upgrade following months of intensive discussions with VicRoads, Victoria Police, CFA, local traders and trail users.
Mayor Tim Heenen said the draft plans for the upgrade aimed to meet the needs of all road users.
“We have a wonderful opportunity to resolve a range of traffic, safety and access issues associated with the intersection,” he said.
The upgrade has been made possible with cash injections from both State and Federal Governments to the value of $1.2 million.
The former Liberal Howard Government contributed $573,000 and the shire received $450,000 from the state.
The upgrade plans include the construction of a fully signalled intersection, road widening to include four lanes along York Road to the Hereford Road roundabout.
Right hand turning lanes to access shops on both sides of York Road will also be part of the project. Service road improvements and a safe crossing point for all pedestrians and trail users is a top priority for the upgrade.
Cr Heenan said the CFA would also be given the ability to remotely activate the traffic signals in the event of an emergency.
Casey MP Tony Smith said the intersection was one of the worst black spots in the area and it was great to see it finally getting a much-needed upgrade.
“Not only is this road quite unsafe – but traffic currently banks up there causing unnecessary delays,” he said.
The plans are now available to community consultation with information meetings set to take place over the next few weeks.