Pedestrian safety to be improved in Seaton

The construction of a new pedestrian and cyclist crossing is about to begin at a key intersection in Seaton, with works scheduled to start tomorrow.

The Transport and Infrastructure Minister and Member for Lee, Stephen Mullighan, said he was pleased the project was going ahead after concerns were raised about the junction of Tapleys Hill Road and Trimmer Parade.

“This intersection has a level crossing running through the middle of it so there are a number of complex and conflicting traffic and train movements,” Mr Mullighan said.

“Add pedestrians and cyclists into the mix and many residents as well as disability advocates had some real safety concerns.

“Our AdelaideMetro train drivers also highlighted it as one of our highest risk intersections for pedestrians, as many were seen to scramble across the train tracks without heeding warning signals.”

Mr Mullighan said the new crossing would assist public transport users in the area, such as Chris Arcangeli, whose mother Anna campaigned for the changes.

“Mr Arcangeli wanted to catch a bus less than 400 metres from his home but he couldn’t get home safely without making a much longer detour because there was no pedestrian crossing,” Mr Mullighan said.

“Now he and all the walkers and cyclists who want to cross at this spot will have a means to safely navigate this intersection.”

The new crossing will be built on the southern section of Tapleys Hill Road.

“The pedestrian crossing on the eastern section of Trimmer Parade will also be widened, and ramps and fencing will be installed,” Mr Mullighan said.

“During the works minor traffic speed and lane restrictions will be in place and advance notice signs have been in place to advise road users.”

Weather permitting, the works should be complete by August 2015.

The $185,000 project is funded through the State Government's Transport System Responsiveness program.