RUMOURS that traffic lights could be installed at opposite ends of the busy Gobbagombalin Bridge are true after the state government released its plans to boost safety.
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Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said traffic lights would be part of a $20 million upgrade to the Old Narrandera Road and Travers Street intersections along the Olympic Highway.
Today's announcement follows extensive consultation with the community in the hopes of improving road safety and reduce congestion for motorists crossing the Gobba Bridge.
"We know increased development to the north of Wagga has placed traffic pressure on either side of Gobbagombalin Bridge creating pinch points which has resulted in numerous crashes," Mr Toole said.
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"After undertaking traffic modelling and talking to the community, traffic lights and additional lane capacity were found to be the safest and most efficient options to allow traffic through both intersections."
Wagga MLC Wes Fang said the introduction of traffic lights will reduce the number and severity of crashes and provide the added benefit of reducing maintenance costs, with the design allowing more lanes to be added in the future if needed.
"While congestion is an issue that we are addressing, our primary objective is to provide the safest outcome for road users in Wagga Wagga and the vehicles who pass through on the Olympic Highway," he said.
Mr Fang said the preferred option also includes the removal of the Travers Street roundabout and the merging lane on the Olympic Highway at Old Narrandera Road.
He said the intersections will be linked via an intelligent traffic management system connected to the rest of Wagga to improve traffic flow.
The community are encouraged to view the preferred options on the Roads and Maritime Services website.
Transport for NSW will discuss the options with stakeholders and the community before preparing a review of environmental factors, which will be released to public for further feedback.