Council is pleased to continue working closely with the Tasmanian Government to enhance pedestrian safety at the Huon Highway-Mountain River Road intersection.
Huon Valley Mayor Sally Doyle met with Transport Minister Eric Abetz last week to discuss the crucial upgrade.
“This upgrade is vital for our community, especially for the many students who use this busy pick-up and drop-off point for school buses,” Mayor Doyle said.
“To cross the road, they have to run across fast moving traffic.”
The project aims to make it safer for pedestrians to access public transport while preserving traffic flow on the highway.
The Tasmanian Government have now engaged consultants to conduct site investigations which will inform the future design of the intersection upgrade.
Council will continue to work closely with the Huon Valley community and Tasmanian Government through the design and delivery phases of this project.
“We expect the project will include improved pedestrian crossings and pathways, providing safer and more convenient routes for those walking or cycling. This will encourage healthier and more sustainable modes of transport,” Mayor Doyle said.
The Grove area is one of the fast-growing communities in the Valley. Daily traffic at Mountain River Road and Crab Tree Road have increased about 10-15% each year since 2020, compared to single digit increases in other areas.
The project is part of the Huon Highway Corridor improvement program, jointly funded by the Tasmanian and Australian Governments.
This investment will help support the growth and development of the Huon Valley, making it a safer, more accessible, and attractive place to live and work.