HOPES for illuminated school crossing speed signs at Koroit promised by former premier Denis Napthine before the November elections have been dashed with the new government saying existing signage is adequate.
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Dr Napthine, the South West Coast MP, promised $25,000 for the project after a community push, and in Parliament this week slammed the new government for failing to commit its support.
“The installation of electronic flashing 40km/h speed limit signs will significantly improve safety for the schoolchildren, their families and the wider school community,” he said.
“I urge the government to get on with the job.”
The issue of road safety in Koroit’s main street was further highlighted yesterday when a child was injured at the pedestrian crossing in the centre of town.
However, a government spokeswoman told The Standard yesterday Dr Napthine had four years to act on behalf of his local community and did nothing.
“The Minister for Roads and Road Safety is aware of community concerns around safety on Commercial Road, Koroit, particularly in front of the Koroit and district school,” she said. “However, current VicRoads guidelines for school speed zones indicate that for roads with a normal speed limit of 50 km/h and with a traffic volume of less than 5000 vehicles per day, static 40km/h speed limit signage is appropriate.
“VicRoads has advised that its engineers have assessed Commercial Road, in particular where the Koroit and district school is located, and confirms there are large signs highlighting the school speed zone and warning drivers of the 40 km/h speed limit at school opening and closing times.
“A children’s crossing is located in front of the school which is operated by a school crossing supervisor.
“There are numerous other signs to warn drivers of the school and schoolchildren in the area.
“These treatments are helping to ensure the safety of children and others using the road.”