After moving to Moonee Ponds three years ago, I quickly realized the difficulties in crossing Orford Street safely to access the Maribyrnong River precinct. The area is rich with local amenities - playgrounds, walking tracks, sporting facilities, Poynton's Nursery, and The Boathouse. However, the lack of a pedestrian crossing makes it difficult to access by foot, particularly during the busy weekends with traffic from Highpoint Shopping Centre. I believe this also results in more people driving to the area, which is bad for the environment and means parking is in high demand. Orford Street, and it's Waverly street extension act like a Great Dividing Range between the residential area to the East and the local amenities to the West. 

I have witnessed multiple near misses during my time in the area - pedestrians narrowly escaping oncoming vehicles, who also drive quite quickly along the street as it's a 60km/hr zone. Families with young children, elderly residents, and people with disabilities face even greater challenges, turning a short and simple commute into a stressful and dangerous ordeal.

After giving birth to my first child in August, this issue has become more pressing than ever. Whilst it has always been difficult to cross the street, now attempting to do so with a pram and my precious baby on board has become terrifying.

Families looking for a day out, fitness enthusiasts heading for a run, people trying to access the public transport bus stops, or anyone simply wishing to enjoy the riverside should be able to do so without fearing for their safety. According to the TAC, 52 pedestrians died on Victorian roads in 2025, an increase from the 5 year average of 39 pedestrians per year. Pedestrian crossings have been proven to improve safety, and have begun to be prioritised around the state in line with the ‘Victorian Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030’

The local council has often emphasized its commitment to community safety, improved public spaces, and the environment and sustainability. Furthermore, the state government states road safety is a key component of their election campaign. Installing a pedestrian crossing on Orford Street is a small yet vital step towards fulfilling these commitments. This solution would not only address an urgent need now,  but also be a great investment in our community's long-term infrastructure. So much work has been done to improve the track along the river, let's improve access to it for the community! 

As Orford Street is a state road, I am calling on the Department of Transport and Planning to urgently investigate traffic conditions and pedestrian safety on Orford Street, and support this petition to build a pedestrian crossing along with any other safety requirements needed in the area.

Let's urge Moonee Valley City Council, the state electorate of Essendon, and the Department of Transport and Planning to work together to prioritize the safety of its residents by installing a pedestrian crossing on Orford Street. This initiative will not only protect lives but encourage a more vibrant, connected community. Please, sign this petition to make our voices heard and ensure everyone can safely access the incredible local amenities our suburb has to offer.

Please also comment any experiences you have attempting to cross Orford Street to access the local amenities.