What’s Happening?
Six raised pedestrian crossings will be installed across East Toowoomba and Oakey to improve safety for students, families and residents.
The upgrades will focus on busy pedestrian areas near schools, major intersections and key community destinations. They form part of the Crisafulli Government’s regional infrastructure program for growing Queensland communities.
Why It Matters?
Raised pedestrian crossings, commonly known as wombat crossings, are designed to slow traffic and make pedestrians more visible to drivers.
They also provide a safer and easier crossing point, particularly near schools and busy intersections. These areas often carry regular foot traffic throughout the day.
Local Impact
The crossings are expected to make school trips safer for students and parents in Oakey. They will also support safer movement through East Toowoomba.
This includes people travelling between the Toowoomba city centre, Queens Park and surrounding neighbourhoods. Seniors, families and other residents using these areas each day should also benefit.
By the Numbers
- Six raised pedestrian crossings will be delivered across East Toowoomba and Oakey
- Two local communities will receive the safety upgrades under the regional infrastructure investment.
- Three main types of locations are being targeted, including schools, intersections and community destinations.
Zoom In
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the crossings would provide practical safety improvements for local communities.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to delivering the infrastructure Queensland communities need, and that includes practical safety upgrades that make a real difference in people’s everyday lives,” Minister Mickelberg said. “Wombat crossings are a proven road safety measure that help protect pedestrians and improve visibility, particularly near schools and busy intersections.
“Whether it’s students walking to school in Oakey or families moving between Toowoomba’s CBD, Queens Park and surrounding neighbourhoods, these upgrades will make it safer and easier to get around. After years of regional communities being overlooked by Labor, we’re getting on with the job of delivering the safer roads and infrastructure locals deserve.”
Member for Toowoomba North Trevor Watts said the investment would be welcomed by people using the busy locations each day.
“These crossings will improve safety for students, parents, seniors and everyone who uses these busy locations every day,” Mr Watts said. “This is another example of the Crisafulli Government getting on with the job and delivering the practical upgrades that matter most to local families.”
Member for Condamine Pat Weir said the project showed the government’s commitment to regional Queensland communities.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to communities in regional Queensland, and we’re making the investments to show our commitment,” Mr Weir said. “We’re listening to local communities, responding to their concerns and delivering the infrastructure needed to keep people safe now and into the future.”
Zoom Out
The government has linked the crossings to its wider plans for regional infrastructure and safer roads. It said regional investment had been overlooked during Labor’s decade in office.
The project is intended to support growing communities while improving pedestrian routes used for school, work and daily activities.
What To Look For Next?
Residents will look for further details about the exact crossing locations and when construction will begin.
Once completed, the crossings should improve daily access around schools, busy intersections and major community destinations.
**Source: Department of the Premier and Cabinet
