Update - in-principle support for pedestrian refuge islands

Hi neighbours,

Hope you’re all staying safe and warm!

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding the proposal for safer pedestrian crossing on Auburn road. I received an update from the Boroondara traffic and transport team that we have received in-principle support for the pedestrian refuge islands at the Auburn road/Bowler street intersection. The delivery of this is now subject to the Department of Transport. Unfortunately it’s not possible to get indicative timings for this decision, but I will continue to correspond with the council team to understand progress. 

This is positive news, so thank you all again for your support thus far! 

Your neighbour,

Kirsten

(See below email correspondence for more detail:)

“Hi Kirsten,

Thank you for following up on your queries and apologies for the slow response.

The updated report that was submitted to the Department of Transport did seek approval and funding commitment for one of the two options presented being:

Option 1: Pedestrian operated signals which are estimated to cost $504,110 and have a Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) of 0.3
Option 2: Pedestrian refuge islands which are estimated to cost $135,630 and have a BCR of 11.3
 

Due to the much higher BCR and lower cost, the Department of Transport have provided their in-principle support for the pedestrian refuge islands only. Ultimately, a pedestrian operated signal would be the best outcome for pedestrians at this location but a pair of pedestrian refuge islands would provide protection for pedestrians in the interim.

The delivery of the pedestrian refuge islands is now subject to funding approval from the Department of Transport. At this stage, we are not able to provide any timelines from the Department of Transport but can keep you informed throughout the process as we become aware of new information.

On your question regarding additional approvals, once funding is allocated, the Department of Transport will likely review and approve the detailed design plans (to be prepared) for the proposed pedestrian refuge islands. As they are likely to deliver these works, they may have internal processes to bypass this approval.

For now, we can celebrate the in-principle support for the pedestrian refuge island proposal and continue to advocate for the funding to deliver these works.

As always, feel free to call and discuss.

Kind regards,

Ella Constable

Senior Transport Engineer

Traffic & Transport | Places & Spaces”