The City of Hobart’s much-used Proctors Road upgrade has been completed ahead of time and will be open and ready for the full return of schools.
The important road joining Tolmans Hill/the Southern Outlet with Sandy Bay was closed on January 3 to start work on the $850 000 project and has reopened before state schools return.
The completed works include:
- installation of a rockfall fence to prevent large rocks falling on to the road and creating traffic hazards as well as new line marking to better delineate the road edge;
- improving the guardrail that separates drivers from a steep embankment and see major improvements to the road surface to create a safer drive by fixing surface defects
- resurfacing of Proctors Road from above Baintree Avenue to Olinda Grove.
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said it was vital to have this project completed before all schools return.
“Proctors Road is a vital conduit between the Southern Outlet and Sandy Bay, with many commuters, teachers, students and parents using this route to school, university or work,” Cr Reynolds said.
“While the difference between holiday traffic and school traffic in reality is only about six per cent extra vehicles, it is important we have all access routes open to ensure traffic flow.”
Cr Reynolds said this project was part of a much broader picture, with the City of Hobart to finalise a transport strategy this year, which will outline a strategic direction for improving streets, spaces and systems in the growing Capital City.
“A key focus of the plan will be providing people with more choices for moving around the city and making it more attractive to live, work and play throughout Hobart,” she said.
“And this includes working with several schools to develop plans to help more parents and kids walk and ride to school.
“The School Active Travel Plans will improve accessibility around our schools to make walking and riding to school a safe, convenient and attractive option that will help our community become more active and less congested.”
Hobart City Mobility Portfolio Chair Ryan Posselt said ensuring safety was the aim of these projects.
“Road safety for car users is the ultimate goal, but we also want people on the move to think of others forms of transport to get to school or work,” Cr Posselt said.
“Having more than one option to reach your destination is vital in ensuring Hobart is a functioning, fluid city.”
On average, 83 per cent of all journeys to work in Hobart are by car, which is a higher proportion that any other Australian capital city.
“We need to give people in Hobart more attractive options to move around our city to create a more balanced transport network,” Cr Posselt said.
“Improving our streets for walking, cycling and public transport is crucial for our city to grow in a sustainable way without suffocating in traffic.
“When someone rides a bike for transport, it means one less car on the road and one more parking bay available to someone who needs it more. There are also population health benefits associated with active transport.
“Implementing a safe and connected cycling network means more people walking and riding bikes.”
