BROOKONG Avenue’s controversial traffic light set has been set in cement, with the project to be completed within the next week.
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Nearby residents are seeing red as peak-hour periods on Docker Street appear likely to be “crunched” by gridlock traffic conditions.
Roads and Maritime Services confirmed the signals will be finalised early July, marking the pinnacle in a six-month-long public debate.
It comes despite civic leaders pleading for a heavy vehicle bypass to deter trucks away from the bustling Edward and Docker Street intersection – which will be further congested by a disrupted traffic flow.
Freight driver Dean Cunningham said the finalisation of the Brookong Avenue traffic lights will make a heavy vehicle bypass even more essential.
“We’re talking about this intersection where everyone comes to a halt, and yet we’re putting in another set of lights,” he said.
“It all seems a bit counterproductive to me.
“I guess we’ll only see the true impact they have once they’re fully operational – and then it might be time to point fingers.”
Wes’s Walkabout Cafe, positioned on the corner of the Brookong Avenue and Docker Street intersection, will be among those affected by roadworks and changing traffic conditions.
Customer Sally Covel, who spends her lunch breaks at the eatery, said another set of traffic lights would cause “pandemonium” on an already bustling arterial.
Former councillor Lindsay Vidler told The Daily Advertiser this year that the completion of the project would not deter him from making his voice heard.
“All of the criticism of this change was ignored,” he said.
“The full consequences of these traffic lights aren’t going to be realised until they’re installed and functioning.
“If anything, it is going to give us more reason to speak out.” It is believed 15 parking spaces were removed from the precinct to make way for the traffic lights.