9 February 2016

Safety for pedestrians at Kogarah will be improved later this month with Roads and Maritime Services installing a new 40 km/h high pedestrian activity area.

A Roads and Maritime Services spokesperson said the NSW Government allocated $5000 under the Network and Safety program to improve pedestrian safety.

“The new speed zone will be installed along Station Street for about 200 metres between Robertson Street and Paine Street,” the Roads and Maritime spokesperson said.

“The reduced 40 km/h speed limit will come into effect from Monday 15 February and aims to improve safety for pedestrians.

“Signs will be installed to alert motorists of the change.

Bernard Carlon from The NSW Centre for Road Safety said a vehicle travelling at 50km/h is twice as likely to cause a fatality as the same vehicle travelling at 40km/h in a collision.

“The 40km/h limit is necessary for busy pedestrian areas. We have more than 150 high pedestrian activity areas currently in NSW each with a 40km/h speed limit,” Mr Carlon said.

“Pedestrians are one of our most vulnerable road user groups, so these roadworks will go a long way in protecting the Kogarah community. “Motorists are reminded to drive to the road conditions at all times for the safety of all road users.”

Community members can sign up to receive updates about changes to permanent speed limits in their nominated area at www.saferroadsnsw.com.au.

Roads and Maritime Services Media Unit 8588 5999 or media@rms.nsw.gov.au