Calls for urgent upgrade to Southbank crash site intersection
A horrific truck crash that injured five pedestrians has sparked calls for an urgent upgrade to the dangerous Southbank intersection.
Victoria
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A dangerous city intersection where five people were injured in a horrific truck crash will be urgently upgraded while the government explores a long-term fix.
Frank Rogers, 46, has been charged and bailed over the tragic smash, on the corner of City Rd and Power St in Southbank, in his truck is alleged to have smashed into pedestrians in front of shocked onlookers.
The crash sparked outrage from concerned residents who called for an immediate fix to the intersection.
The Andrews government will next week start upgrades to make the crossing less dangerous while the department of transport investigates more permanent solutions.
In total, the state has put aside $400,000 for its safety program in the area.
Crews will place bollards on the corner where the crash happened in an effort to protect walkers in the busy area and separate the footpath from the road.
The crossing will be repainted bright yellow to make it more visible while new signs and markings will also warn drivers and pedestrians about the risk of trucks turning as they approach the intersection.
Sensors will also be installed to better detect how many people are waiting to cross and will be linked to traffic lights to provide more opportunities to walk.
This will prevent overcrowding on the side of the road, with pedestrians also given a head start before cars turning left are shown a green arrow.
Road Safety Minister Ben Carroll said the intersection was a complex spot in a busy and dense part of Melbourne.
“We’re delivering immediate upgrades to protect the community and make City Rd safer for all road users while we develop a long-term safety solution,” he said.
The state government will also work with the City of Melbourne, locals and the freight industry to find long-term safety fixes beyond those already pledged.
“We are committed to improving safety for pedestrians using this intersection by working closely with the Victorian Government,” Lord Mayor Sally Capp said.
Locals have previously called for a full ban on trucks in the area but have backed bollards as an immediate solution.
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