Your views wanted on ‘traffic congestion’ in Foster

THE South Gippsland Shire Council is proposing a 12-month trial to address safety concerns and traffic congestion in Pioneer Street, Foster.

As part of the trial, part of Pioneer Street would be changed to one-way in an effort to minimise road safety risks in front of the primary school and new kindergarten, particularly near pickup and drop off areas.

According to shire CEO Kerryn Ellis, Council is now seeking community feedback on the proposal.

“Council is proposing the one-way trial on Pioneer Street in an attempt to improve safety for children around the Foster school and kindergarten precinct,” said Ms Ellis.

“We are keen to hear from residents who use Pioneer Street regularly, to help determine whether the proposed trial will be the best option for the Foster community.

“It is clear that improvements need to occur in the area – and soon. Feedback from our community will help us to determine whether the proposed trial moves forward.”

The trial was proposed after a number of safety concerns were identified on Pioneer Street due to the high amount of car, bus and pedestrian traffic at school times.

The safety risks are expected to increase when the new kindergarten opens next year. Unfortunately, the Department of Education has not provided car parking for the new kindergarten and additional parking cannot be accommodated on the school grounds.

Before landing on the one-way proposal, Council considered different ways to mitigate the safety risks, including widening or reconfiguring the road within the existing formation and changing the bus drop off areas.

The partial one-way configuration was considered the safest and most cost-effective option that would also meet Council’s obligations under the Road Management Act.

To determine whether or not the trial proceeds next year, Council is seeking feedback from the local community until Sunday 8 January. Feedback can be provided at: https://yoursay.southgippsland.vic.gov.au/