Brisbane is working to ease traffic congestion and improve safety for families in Kedron by introducing a Safer School Precinct, addressing challenges near three local schools.
Improving Safety and Reducing Congestion
The Kedron Safer School Precinct initiative focuses on improving road safety, pedestrian access, and sustainable transport options for students and families. Located in Brisbane’s inner north, the project supports Padua College, St Anthony’s Primary School, and Mount Alvernia College near busy main roads such as Gympie and Stafford roads.
With over 66% of Brisbane students currently being driven to school, Council aims to reduce traffic volume during peak periods by encouraging active transport options, such as walking and cycling, and improving infrastructure to make these safer and more accessible.
Community Consultation Shapes Solutions
Council sought feedback from residents, businesses, and the school community during a month-long consultation period from 12 November to 12 December 2024. The insights gathered will be considered alongside technical data to design a tailored transport plan that meets community needs.
Suggested infrastructure improvements include pedestrian crossings, widened footpaths, traffic calming measures, and optimised school drop-off zones. Plans to implement these changes in a phased approach are underway, starting with Kedron and Mansfield precincts, before expanding to Indooroopilly and Wynnum Manly.
Coordinated Efforts for Sustainable Travel
The Safer School Precincts program builds on award-winning initiatives, such as Active School Travel, which promotes walking and cycling to school. This program also includes behaviour change campaigns aimed at empowering families to make sustainable and safe travel choices.
By improving active transport infrastructure and reducing vehicle congestion, the aim is to create more liveable precincts that benefit both school communities and surrounding neighbourhoods. Enhanced pathways, dedicated bike parking, and safer pedestrian zones are among the changes designed to make the journey to school more enjoyable and environmentally friendly.
How It Works
- Community Engagement: Council collaborates with schools, businesses, and residents to identify local transport needs.
- Infrastructure Implementation: Solutions like safer pedestrian crossings, widened footpaths, and active transport facilities are developed.
- Behavioral Change Programs: These initiatives will guide communities to adopt sustainable, safe travel options.
- Healthy, Sustainable Travel: Emphasizing wellness, environmental sustainability, and stronger community connections.
A Broader Vision for Brisbane
The Kedron project is part of a larger effort to address the city’s growing population and increasing traffic demands. Brisbane is using community-driven insights to implement projects that align with broader city-shaping goals, including preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
As infrastructure improvements take shape, the plan is to work closely with schools and residents to ensure the long-term success of the Safer School Precincts initiative.
Published 23-Dec-2024
