As the new school year gets underway, parents and students across regional NSW can feel reassured knowing that hundreds of school zones are now safer following upgrades delivered through the School Zone Infrastructure Sub Program.
Since its launch in 2020, this over $40 million investment by the Australian and NSW governments has enabled the NSW Government and local councils to implement 474 critical safety improvements on roads near schools in regional and rural areas.
These improvements have enhanced safety and accessibility in school zones, making it easier for both drivers and pedestrians to navigate these areas.
In towns and communities across regional NSW, these upgrades include:
- raising pedestrian 'wombat' crossings and pedestrian 'blisters'
- creation of "kiss and drop" locations along with installing signage
- installation of pedestrian refuges and zebra crossings
- installation of new kerb ramps, pedestrian fencing and lighting
- installation of traffic signals
- installation and upgrades of footpaths and shared paths
- signage upgrades
- repainting and replenishing faded "Dragon's Teeth" markings on roadways
- guttering and pathway to provide safe access between bus stop and school.
From Bega to Broken Hill and the Richmond Valley, these road safety infrastructure projects have delivered significant improvements to local schools across regional NSW.
The School Zone Infrastructure Sub Program is part of a broader $1.18 billion investment from the Australian and NSW Governments under the Road Safety Program and has played a crucial role in enhancing safety.
These projects were designed to protect vulnerable road users, reduce road trauma and save lives, and supported more than 2,500 direct and indirect jobs, as the economy recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic.
