What’s Happening?
Detailed design is underway for safety improvements along James Street in Toowoomba, focusing on turning traffic and pedestrian access. The work aims to address known crash risks and improve traffic flow through the city.
Why It Matters
The design targets right-turn safety at Kitchener Street and Ruthven Street, where motorists join James Street. Treasurer and Member for Toowoomba South David Janetzki said the upgrades would save lives and improve traffic flow.
“Toowoomba locals have waited too long to see these intersections receive the safety upgrades they desperately needed,” he said. “The Crisafulli Government is getting on with the job of targeting known crash risks at two important intersections on James Street.”
Local Impact
Member for Toowoomba North Trevor Watts said the changes would benefit residents and freight operators using the corridor.
“These intersections play an important role in moving people and freight through Toowoomba, making them safer and more efficient will benefit everyone who uses the corridor,” he said.
What’s Being Considered
- New and extended right-turn lanes, plus a longer left-turn lane at Ruthven Street, are under consideration.
- Pedestrian options include a new signalised crossing, raised crossings at existing slip lanes and upgraded kerb ramps.
- Designers will also assess upgraded traffic signals and restrictions on filtered right-turn movements.
Zoom In
Design work will consider new and extended right-turn lanes, upgraded traffic signals and kerb ramps. Raised pedestrian crossings at existing slip lanes and restrictions on filtered right-turn movements are also under consideration.
“The design will look at how we can improve traffic flow, ease congestion, and reduce the risk of serious crashes,” Mr Watts said. “Anyone who has turned right onto James Street from Kitchener Street or Ruthven Street knows just how dangerous this intersection can be, and why this work is so desperately needed.”
Zoom Out
The government says Labor failed to respond to years of local calls for improvements. Mr Janetzki also linked the project to regional population growth.
“This is another example of the Crisafulli Government supporting regional Queensland’s growing population and delivering the infrastructure for our growing city,” he said.
What To Look For Next?
Detailed design will assess how the proposed lane, crossing and signal changes could reduce crash risks. As Toowoomba grows, the aim is safer turns and crossings for everyone using James Street.