New signals shine a light on safety at Rockhampton black spot

Published on 25 January 2023

L-R Councillor Smith, Mayor Williams, Councillor Wickerson.jpg

The dark days are over for a key intersection in the heart of Rockhampton, with vital traffic signals funded by the Australian Government’s Black Spot program now switched on.

The new signals and pedestrian crossings, installed at the intersection of Upper Dawson Road and Caroline Street in Allenstown, will help improve traffic flow, and boost safety for both pedestrians and motorists.

Ramps and new turning lanes have also been constructed, while Rockhampton Regional Council also installed new kerbs and channels, and undertook asphalt surfacing and line marking. 

The works were funded through a $676,000 investment from the Australian Government’s Black Spot Program.

For more information on the Black Spot Program, including eligibility and how to nominate a site for upgrade, visit https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/about/local-initiatives/black-spot-program/index.aspx

Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Carol Brown:

“This project exemplifies what the Australian Government’s Black Spot Program is all about – keeping everyone safe on our roads and supporting our local communities.

“We are providing $110 million each year to fund measures to reduce the risk of crashes at dangerous locations. I’m proud this project will help save lives in the Rockhampton community.

“I encourage all state and territory governments, local councils, community groups and associations, road user groups, industry and individual Australians to nominate sites for Black Spot funding.”  

Quotes attributable to Senator for Queensland Nita Green:

“More than 200 people have lost their lives on Queensland’s roads in 2022, and last year’s road toll from January to November was more than 14 per cent higher than the five-year average for the same period. Those are devastating figures.

By working together to fix black spots, we can reduce the impacts of road trauma on our communities nationwide.” 

Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams:

“We know these road works have had an impact on the community and we really appreciate the community's support whilst crews undertook the upgrade.

“I want to particularly thank the businesses, residents and schools in the area for their patience and understanding whilst these works were undertaken. These traffic signals have been a long time coming, and will go a long way to making the area a lot safer.

Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Regional Council Infrastructure Councillor Ellen Smith:

“This a busy intersection, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times, plus the traffic from the local shopping centre, childcare centre, and medical centre, as well as a number of other surrounding businesses and homes.

“Not only will the traffic lights and signalised pedestrian crossings with new pram ramps on all sides make the area safer for both road users and pedestrians, the right-turning lanes on Upper Dawson Road will also assist with traffic flow.”

Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Regional Council Divisional Councillor Drew Wickerson:

“The lights being switched on officially mark the completion of this key project.

“This area is used by many, and it is great to see these works come to fruition.

“I want to thank the Australian Government for funding this essential work, and the community for their patience during construction.”