Safety improvements are on the way for State Highway 53 in Martinborough.
As part of its Safety Improvements programme, NZTA/Waka Kotahi will be making changes to the intersection of SH53 and Princess Street, with work to start next week.
Mark Owen, Regional Manager Wellington / Top of the South Island, says the community and Council have raised concerns about the intersection’s safety.
“We have listened to what people have said and will be making the intersection safer.”
“The current road layout can create a ‘look through’ effect, where drivers misjudge gaps or fail to clearly recognise conflicting traffic movement. This increases the chance of crashes when vehicles are crossing or turning at the intersection,” Mr Owen says.
He says the changes will include new road markings, new median traffic islands and pedestrian facilities, and relocated road signs. The intersection will also be redesigned to help make turning easier and safer for all travellers.
“The new traffic islands will help mitigate current risks. They will help reduce vehicle speeds and improve driver awareness and behaviour at the intersection.”
And Mr Owen says the changes will also make the intersection safer for pedestrians.
“The new traffic islands will allow pedestrians to cross Princess Street in two stages rather than having to find a single large gap in traffic. “This will make crossing the road easier for older people and those with mobility issues.”
Contractors will begin work from 4 May and will be on site Monday to Friday, between 8 am and 4 pm. The project is expected to take around two weeks to complete, weather permitting.
