By Jeremy Cook
A major $1.6 million upgrade of pedestrian crossings in Warwick’s CBD has reached its final stages with a completion date scheduled for the end of the month, it can be revealed.
The project, which began in April, has faced minor complications with wet weather, an extended timeline for fresh asphalt to dry and the 10-day long Jumpers and Jazz in July Festival pushing its end date back by about two months.
The CBD revamp was dubbed an important safety upgrade by Southern Downs Regional Council which had secured federal funding for the project back in early-2021.
A spokeswoman for Southern Downs Regional Council said several other components not initially included in the original project had since been added.
“Additional improvements such as parking, drainage and footpath rehabilitation, which were not part of the original project scope, have been incorporated to enhance the overall infrastructure,” the spokeswoman said.
“We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we complete these important upgrades.
“The project is on track to be finished soon, and we are excited to deliver a safer and more accessible environment for all residents and visitors.
“Weather permitting, works are scheduled to be completed by the end of August.”
Upgrades have been centred on four key streets in Warwick’s CBD including Palmerin, Guy, Grafton and King Streets.
Once finished, up to 24 crossings will have been converted into raised or level priority zebra crossings and a total of 48 solar lights installed. Sandstone garden beds at the Fitzroy and Guy Street intersection will benefit from a touch-up.
While Kerb ramps, advanced warning signage, tactile ground indicators and standardised 40 km/h speed limits on Palmerin Street from Percy to Fitzroy Street and Guy Street from Percy to Fitzroy Street also form part of the project.
So what work remains before the project can be declared complete? Here’s what Southern Downs Regional Council reported:
– Final line marking of pedestrian crossings has commenced and will finish by 16 August. Work will take place between 6pm and 3am to minimise disruption.
– Garden beds at the Guy and Fitzroy Street intersection will be replanted in early September to avoid potential damage to plants from late frosts.
– The 48th and final solar light was installed at the Guy and Grafton Street crossing on 11 August.
– Tactile ground surface indicators are currently on order and are expected to arrive early next week. Installation will commence at all 24 crossings once delivered, taking about two to three days.
– Handrails are expected to be installed on the Palmeran and Percy Street crossing ramps by 16 August.
– Works to repair the kerb and channel on Fitzroy Street are underway and scheduled to finish by 16 August.
