Further safety measures to be introduced at intersection
Taupō District Council is introducing further safety measures at the new Arrowsmith / Kiddle / Napier Road intersection, following a post construction audit to see how the changes were working.
Last month, the intersection layout changed priority, giving traffic travelling on Kiddle Drive and Arrowsmith Avenue the right of way, with vehicles on Napier Road required to stop.
The previous layout was named one of New Zealand Transport Agency’s top 10 crash sites in 2009 with the new design created in consultation with traffic specialists to ensure safety was the number one priority.
Head of operations Kevin Strongman said the council had listened to community feedback since the new layout was introduced.
“As a result of this feedback, and following the post construction safety report, we have held discussions with our designers to add additional safety measures for users.
“This includes installing additional ‘stop ahead’ markings on both approaches by January. At the same time, we’re asking motorists to stay vigilant and ensure they follow the signage which includes large stop signs on Napier Road.
“We will also continue to monitor the intersection closely and will be looking to add threshold markings (red surfacing with 50 speed limit painted on the road) on the approaches to the intersection.
“Safety is our number one priority for all users and we are also looking at ways to improve the crossing for cyclists and pedestrians,” he said.