Leeton will have its first set of working traffic lights by the end of June 2011, with preparation work already starting.
The lights will be installed at the intersection of Irrigation Way, Canal Street and Vance Road and will be linked with the railway level crossing boom gates on Canal Street. $600,000 has been set aside for the project.
“The upgrade includes the installation of traffic lights, median and re-surfacing work, linemarking and signs,” Murrumbidgee MLC Tony Catanzariti said.
“The work will improve safety for road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, by reducing crashes and increasing traffic efficiency.
Mr Catanzariti said there were five reported accidents at the intersection between 2003 and 2007, including four that caused injuries.
“All reported crashes occurred at the intersection and adjacent approaches during fine weather,” he said.
“Speed, fatigue and alcohol were also not considered to be contributing factors in any of the incidents.
“A railway level crossing is located on Canal Street and a cycle track turns onto Canal Street from Irrigation Way.
“Boom gates will be installed on the railway level crossing on Canal Street under separate funding, which will upgrade the warning signals currently there.”
This project was jointly funded with $400,000 from the Federal Nation Building Black Spot Package and $200,000 from State funds.
Stage one of the project involves preparation work for the traffic lights. Work is expected to be completed by late August 2010.
Stage two involves the commissioning of traffic lights and linking them with the boom gates, which is expected to be completed by late June 2011.
