- Safety treatments to be installed on Bussell Highway through Cowaramup
- Painted median and temporary kerbing to be applied
- Upgrades in response to community concerns around pedestrian safety
- Investigations into long-term solutions will continue as part of the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River's Cowaramup Integrated Transport Strategy
Upgrades through the South West town of Cowaramup are set to commence later this month, improving safety for pedestrians in the town centre.
A 1.5-metre painted median will be applied between Bottrill and O'Brien Streets and Peake Street, to help address community concerns around pedestrian safety.
The new painted median will provide a safe space for pedestrians to stop when crossing the road and will also include temporary rubber kerbing.
The median will be painted white, making it highly visible for vehicles entering the town. All existing parking bays will be retained, and the guarded school pedestrian crossing will remain.
Once installed, Main Roads will monitor usage both on-site and via community feedback, after which a decision will be made on permanent installation. This two-staged approach provides an opportunity to review how the treatment is operating, along with its effectiveness and compliance.
Medium and long-term solutions for the town centre will be developed in line with the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River's Cowaramup Integrated Transport Strategy. The strategy focuses on all transport aspects in the area including road improvements and connections, pedestrian and cycle path connectivity, bus stop locations, parking and other considerations.
The painted median and temporary kerbing is expected to be installed before the end of September 2024.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Cowaramup's increasing population, popularity as a tourist destination and significant traffic volumes have made crossing Bussell Highway challenging for pedestrians.
"We're focused on working with local communities to address road safety issues, and these upgrades will enhance safety for pedestrians while longer-term solutions are considered."
As stated by Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie:
"I'd like to thank the Cowaramup community for their ongoing commitment to improving road safety.
"It's been fantastic working with the community, and in particular, the Road Safety Action Group, to secure the painted median, an important step towards making the road safer for pedestrians.
"I've listened closely to community concerns and have strongly advocated for these safety measures.
"While we investigate longer-term solutions, this two-staged approach allows us to assess how well the upgrades are working and ensure we're on the right track."
