While some are citing Victorian road law that protects the pedestrian’s right of way when crossing an intersection, others are claiming a lack of common sense in the placement of the crossings.
Carol Fursdon from Rutherglen Anglican Op Shop said she liked the idea but the location of the crossings wasn’t ideal.
“I can see what they’re trying to do, but it’s just not working,” Carol said.
“If you’ve got a trailer on and you’re turning into High St from Corowa and a pedestrian comes along to cross the road, all of a sudden you’re blocking Main St.”
According to the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, the wombat pedestrian crossings were installed to improve safety by increasing pedestrian visibility and reducing potential conflicts.
Department executive director, Anthony Judd said when determining safety improvements, a range of factors were considered, including the extent to which a solution would improve safety or congestion.
“We are ensuring pedestrians have safer options to access education and shopping precincts along Main Street,” Mr Judd said.
“All upgrades have been designed and constructed to meet the relevant safety standards.”
The Department of Transport claims the final crossing designs were developed with consideration for these factors and to community feedback.
According to Indigo Shire Council, the Department conducted extensive community consultation and spoke with all local businesses before the works commenced.
“Consultation isn’t the right word,” Ms Fursdon said.
“They contacted us to tell us what they were going to do, but they didn’t consult with us.”
Social media is alight with comments about the intersection, with most confused or outraged by the changes.
“It’s so confusing, it’s going to cause so many accidents,” Jesiika Louiise said.
“Not to mention the lights that still aren’t turned on and no-one knows who goes.”
“It’s the most chaotic drive down the main street now,” Narelle Regan said.
“I’d rather avoid it by going down Reid St.”
Some, however, are in favour of the road upgrades and believe it should make no difference to the way the intersection is used.
“You had to give way to pedestrians from either direction anyway when turning into High St, and you do now,” Theo Kalkandis said.
“The only difference is they painted a pedestrian crossing on the road to make everyone aware they have to give way anyway.”
Anyone wishing to submit feedback about the road changes can do so by emailing humeregionalpartners@transport.vic.gov.au.
Further details about the project can be found online at https://transport.vic.gov.au/news-and-resources/projects/rutherglen-pedestrian-safety-improvements.
