AFTER decades of discussion, the question about pedestrian crossings in Airlie Beach could be solved.
Whitsunday Regional Council will commence a six-month pedestrian crossing trial in the Airlie Beach Main Street, starting on December 1, 2023.
Mayor Julie Hall said council was developing an overarching Airlie Beach Masterplan and the six-month pedestrian trial would capture key information to help inform an ultimate streetscaping solution for the Main Street.
“During the six-month trial, council will be capturing direct formal and informal feedback from all users to help identify what works and what doesn’t work, so we can utilise this information for future considerations for the Airlie Beach Masterplan, to be developed in 2024,” Mayor Hall said.
“People’s safety is our priority, and this trial aims to enhance pedestrian experiences and traffic flow, with clear pedestrian crossing points, enhanced traffic management and improved pedestrian safety.
“Recent consultation with Airlie Beach Main Street businesses, key stakeholders, residents and visitors – via face-to-face conversations, market stalls and an online survey – helped identify safety concerns with the current vehicle priority status.
“In our consultation, we were careful to try and capture all points of view from public transport, delivery drivers, cruise ship passengers, taxis, residents and visitors to our region.
“As a key tourism hub and cruise ship destination, we want to make Airlie Beach a safe place for our residents and visitors, so we are trialling the introduction of four pedestrian crossings in the Main Street from December 1.
“It is important that the trial captures feedback during peak holiday periods like Christmas but also during the quieter months, in February and March, to ensure we have an accurate reflection on how the crossings trial will impact on the flow of the Main Street.”
Mayor Hall said council’s focus was on planning for the future and the trial aligned with ongoing efforts to enhance Airlie Beach’s streetscape infrastructure and safety measures.
“As we navigate the next six months, council officers will closely monitor the trial’s effectiveness and make informed decisions for the benefit of our community, with the ultimate aim of creating a safer and more connected Airlie Beach,” she said.
“We want to develop a solution that creates a pedestrian-friendly town for all ages and abilities, supports local businesses and our community, and encourages safer speeds for drivers in the Main Street precinct.”
For more information on the Airlie Beach Main Street Pedestrian trial, or to provide feedback during the trial, visit council’s ‘Your Say’ www.yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au.
