The Territory Labor Government will invest $570,000 in traffic upgrades at Alawa and Nemarluk schools to improve safety for children and families.
A joint report into traffic improvements in the Alawa education precinct was commissioned by the Territory Labor Government and City of Darwin last year, after concerns were raised by families and school representatives over congestion, lack of parking, vehicle speeds, lack of safe pedestrian crossing points and poor visibility.
The report made a number of recommendations, including:
- A new, 30 bay car parking area at Alawa Primary School
- Extension of Nemarluk car parking area to accommodate 12 extra cars
- Installation of traffic calming measures in Alawa Crescent and Styles Street
- Installation of a park and stride area at Alawa shops and an associated pedestrian crossing, to reduce traffic flow around the two schools
- Sign installation at Kiss and Go areas to reinforce time limits
- Footpath upgrades in the school precinct
The Territory Labor Government will begin on some of the works, including the car parking spaces and signage, in the coming months and are expected to complete them before the end of the 2020 school year.
The City of Darwin has applied for funding for the remainder of the works under the Federal Government’s Black Spot program, which aims to provide a safe route to school for children and safe crossing facilities for all pedestrians.
As noted by Minister for Education, Selena Uibo.
“The Territory Labor Government has heard the concerns of the Alawa and Nemarluk school communities and we have acted.
“Unlike the CLP, who cut $135 million from the education budget during their chaotic term of government, the Territory Labor Government will always invest in education and in the safety of our families and young people.”
As noted by Member for Casuarina, Lauren Moss.
“We have listened to the concerns of the Alawa and Nemarluk school communities, who have told us they are worried about congestion and safety in peak areas around this education precinct.
“I am pleased to be able to deliver this project that will significantly improve the flow of traffic, and most importantly, enhance safety for our children and families during the busy school drop-off and pick-up times.”
