Eastside go-slow takes off

Traffic calming measures are being installed in East Masterton. PHOTO/CAL ROBERTS

CAL ROBERTS
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A collaborative project a year in the making is set to slow down traffic in East Masterton.

Masterton District Council [MDC] has been working with the community through the Eastside Community Group to identify improvements that can make the streets safer for all.

Aside from a setback last month, where cars sustained significant damage while travelling over a steep obstacle on River Rd, the project is in full swing.

Eastside Community Group chair Laurie Williams said the traffic project was the result of a community hui about a year ago.

“It’s been a concern for quite a while.”

Williams said there were speed tables destined for River Rd, Cameron Cr, Clyde St and outside Te Awhina Cameron Community House on Church St.

Speed tables are long raised sections of road designed to lift the entire wheelbase of a vehicle, meaning traffic must slow down to safely mount and navigate the obstacle.

He said the community opted for the tables because they were proven effective elsewhere.

“One of the options was a hump, but the problem with a hump is that it creates noise as cars hit and bounce over them.
The group also considered chicanes, which create a curve in the road forcing motorists to slow down.

“In the end we followed the advice of council and their advisors.”

Also, under the project is a planned traffic island on the east end of Church St, connecting with Colombo Rd to address concerns of traffic cutting the corner and putting pedestrians at risk.

Williams said working in collaboration with MDC had been “marvellous”.

“Council have really listened to concerns put to them and taken them up with their authorities and powers that be and been really good at consulting us, putting options to us and telling us what’s been happening.”

MDCs manager of community facilities and activities, Andrea Jackson, said the project was a result of community-led discussion and a commitment to supporting community led development in the district.

“Speed was raised as a concern through community-led discussions and implementing speed tables on various streets was decided on by the ECG and supported by the council.”