13 July 2018
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Car accident on Thomas Crescent
Inquiry
A reporter sought comment for a story about a car crash which happened on Thomas Crescent overnight.
I have spoken to a witness who lives on the road and she said there are a large number of accidents near the corner where Western Heights Primary School is.
Her parents have lived there for the last 40 years and have had this as an ongoing issue.
- Is the council aware of issues on Thomas Crescent?
- Would the council consider placing judder bars or speed bumps on that stretch of road?
- There are speed bumps along Gordon Rd and Brookland Rd which are busy thoroughfares, are there any other areas of Western/Pleasant/Selwyn Heights the council are looking at for these types of speed deterrents?
Response
Response from Infrastructure General Manager Stavros Michael -
Council is making a significant effort to improve road safety and continues to deliver safe driver education.
In this specific area Council is aware that there is a history of road risk especially given the large number of school age children who use this road.
Work is currently underway on a shared path on Thomas Crescent that will provide a safer off-road option for pedestrians and bike riders and as part of that project will be installing road calming features such as line markings, raised crossing points and kerb extensions which will help to slow vehicles and reduce the risk of accidents.
Council is also working together with Western Heights Primary School to deliver road safety and bike education and will be making improvements to its rear entrance to help improve safety at the drop-off and pick-up zone for parents and students.
Feedback has highlighted that some residents would like to see speed humps installed on Turner Road however whether they are suitable for an area depends on a number of factors. Once the scheduled road calming features are complete Council will monitor the area and determine if further measures are required.
Work scheduled:
Shared path Gordon Road (complete)
Shared path Thomas Crescent
Western Heights Primary rear entrance improvements
Raised crossings
Line markings
Kerb extensions
Extra parking near school entrance/exit
