Stepping up safety for pedestrians and school kids
Published on 25 October 2023
Eight local school zones are set to become safer than ever as Rockhampton Regional Council rolls out crucial upgrades in partnership with the State Government.
With a joint contribution of $872,000 from the State Government’s School Transport and Infrastructure Program (STIP) and Rockhampton Regional Council we will deliver the upgrades over the next several months.
Infrastructure Councillor Ellen Smith said she is thrilled to see these upgrades underway with enhancements already completed at Rockhampton High School and Rockhampton Special School, and St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School next in line.
“Safety is paramount when it comes to our children, and these pedestrian upgrades are a significant stride forward in providing a safer environment to our most vulnerable road user group as they journey to and from their school,” Cr Smith said.
“Our team has carefully selected eight projects that will address the safety concerns shared by our students, their families, and the community.
“Each project will involve a variety of upgrades ranging from safer drop and go zones, wider footpaths, a pedestrian refuge and kerb works to keep children safe in high traffic areas.
“I am grateful to the Queensland Government for their collaboration and generous funding to help Council deliver these upgrades across the Region.
“This partnership exemplifies the power of working together to address pressing community needs and deliver positive outcomes.”
Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said the School Transport Infrastructure Program was first launched back in 2018 and has been incredibly successful, partnering with schools and communities, making the road infrastructure around Queensland schools safer.
"Since the program began, more than 90 school transport infrastructure projects have been completed, which have protected one of our most vulnerable road user groups, children, on their way to and from school.
"Anyone who’s aware of a safety issue affecting a local school or has an idea about how to improve school transport infrastructure can put forward a STIP idea for consideration.”
Member for Keppel, Brittany Lauga said she would encourage community members to visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/stip to find out more about the School Transport Infrastructure Program and download an application form.
“The program also helps to create jobs for local businesses and contractors, supporting the continued recovery from the pandemic and floods.”
Project Overviews
North Rocky High - Robinson Street
- This project has been completed and involved the installation of a kerb and footpath along Robinson Street, making it safer for pedestrians.
- Commencement: May 2023
- Conclusion: Completed July 2023
Rockhampton Special School - Kent Street
- This project will address accessibility and safety issues along the Kent Street frontage of the school with the installation of a footpath.
- Commencement: September 2023
- Conclusion: October 2023
Mount Archer State School - Wiltshire Street
- The project will provide a wider path with compliant kerb ramps to accommodate the high pedestrian volumes.
- Commencement: November 2023
- Conclusion: December 2023
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School – White Street
- The project will provide a pedestrian refuse on White Street to make it safer to cross as well and a new concrete footpath connection towards Ted Nutley Park.
- Commencement: November 2023
- Conclusion: December 2023
Frenchville State School – Frenchville Road
- The project will provide a safer and more efficient Stop, Drop and Go zone and reduce congestion on Frenchville Road.
- Commencement: December 2023
- Conclusion: January 2024
Rockhampton Grammar School - Quarry Street & Archer Street
- A pedestrian path is on the non-school side of Quarry Street will be installed and a missing link of footpath on Archer Street will also be installed accommodating for the high-volume pedestrian traffic.
- Commencement: December 2023
- Conclusion: February 2024
Mount Morgan Central State School - Gordon Street
- This project will involve the installation of concrete behind the previously constructed kerbs to level out the area and make it safer for pedestrians.
- Commencement: February 2024
- Conclusion: February 2024
Mount Morgan State High School - Dee Street
- The project will involve the installation of a new concrete footpath and waiting area to address safety concerns.
- Commencement: March 2024
- Conclusion: April 2024
These dates are subject to change due work crew availability, weather and ground conditions.