Traffic lights installed at busy Pialba intersection

Traffic lights will be installed and a range of other works will get underway in early January to improve safety at a busy Pialba intersection.

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor David Lewis said the intersection of Nissen Street and Islander Road in Hervey Bay was being upgraded to make it safer for motorists and pedestrians.

“This intersection is in a busy business district used by thousands of vehicles daily, including many trucks,” he said.

“Several crashes have occurred at this intersection in recent years, some of which have led to hospitalisations, mostly due to motorists failing to give way from Islander Road.

“This upgrade should improve traffic flow, reduce crashes and make it easier for pedestrians to cross the road, particularly during peak times.

“There will be traffic management arrangements in place during the works, and Council thanks everyone in advance for their patience while this important project is completed.”

The project includes the installation of traffic lights, the widening of Nissen Street to allow for additional marked on-street parking spaces, new kerb ramps, upgrades to sections of the footpaths, new kerb and channel, road surfacing and new pavement marking.

Local contractors Jac Civil have been awarded the $1.3 million contract to deliver the works, which is mainly funded by the Australian Government’s Black Spot Program.

Work will start on 3 January 2024, weather permitting, and is due to be completed by mid-2024.