The Mirror News

Shire reviews Pioneer Street traffic safety idea

SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council is reviewing its idea of introducing one-way travel along part of Pioneer Street in Foster to enhance traffic safety following a recent community consultation period.

As part of the engagement during December 2023, residents were asked to provide feedback on a proposed trial, which suggested converting a section of Pioneer Street to one-way in an effort to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety.

“We would like to thank everyone who contributed feedback to the engagement,” South Gippsland Shire CEO Kerryn Ellis said.

“Council will now gather additional feedback and traffic information to help determine the best way to move forward.”

The proposed trial was in response to the opening of the new Foster Early Learning Centre kindergarten on Pioneer Street by the Victorian Department of Education, and a request for assistance from Foster Primary School.

Ms Ellis said the results from the survey were close with 56 per cent against the proposal and 44 per cent in support.

A statement from the Shire read that the engagement didn’t produce as many results or responses as expected, which was likely due to the survey being released just prior to Christmas.

Many people who were not in support of the proposal did indicate that they were concerned about the increased traffic volumes but were either not comfortable with the amount of detail provided or the solution proposed.

“As a result of this feedback Council will re-look at the traffic flow arrangements,” Ms Ellis said.

“We will consult further with the primary school and kindergarten community as this feedback will be vital in assessing the safety of students moving forward.”

Two traffic counters have also been installed along Pioneer Street and one in Boundary Road to get an accurate idea of traffic volumes now the school year has commenced.

PRIMARY SCHOOL URGES TRAFFIC AWARENESS

Foster Primary School has welcomed both the return of its own school families and the arrival of those attending the new Foster Early Learning Centre for the 2023 academic year.

The school has also urged everyone to be aware of increased traffic, including cars and buses as well as cyclists and pedestrians, along Pioneer Street and around the Foster Primary School and Early Learning Centre precinct.

Prom Coast Centres for Children and the Foster Primary School have been closely working with South Gippsland Shire to improve the traffic management around the Primary School site to support increased safety and improved parking options.

The school has advised parents that it understood there “might be some nerves for new students in the first few weeks.

“Please make sure you plan for plenty of time for your arrival and park in safe place that allows you time at drop off to support your child. 

“This will help you and your child develop a calm and enjoyable transition into kindergarten and school.”

The school reminded parents, when considering drop off times and locations, to observe the parking restrictions and no standing zones that are in place along Pioneer Street  between 8 am and 9 am, and again from 3 pm to 4 pm.

The school asked all drivers to observe the 40 km speed limit along Pioneer Street.

Parking in front of the Foster Early Learning Centre can only occur before 8 am and after 4 pm. 

All day parking is also available on Boundary Road or Station Road should parents need additional time to settle their child or if they are meeting with teaching staff.

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