The Department of Transport and Main Roads is investigating options to improve several major roads on the Sunshine Coast, after extensive community consultation.
The department intends to develop a long-term vision for the route between Maroochydore and Noosa, via Duporth Avenue, Bradman Avenue, David Low Way, Jubilee and Coolum Esplanades.
Droves of residents expressed their opinions on the network of roads via surveys and an interactive map, during the feedback period from October 4 to November 7.
The online consultation webpage was visited almost 5000 times and 746 submissions were collected.
There were several pleas regarding Bradman Avenue, along the river at Maroochydore.
‘DJM’ was one of many to say: “reduce the speed limit to 50kph.”
“Much of Bradman Ave is now a residential area and there are many pedestrians and dog walkers. Crossing the road is a significant hazard.”
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There were also appeals for pedestrian lights and crossings at the intersection of David Low Way and Petrie Creek Road, at Diddillibah.
“I run the traffic gauntlet here three to four times weekly and so does my family. So many near misses,” commentator ‘KarinM’ said.
The intersections within the Bli Bli business zone were also a common cause for concern.
“The multiple sets of lights creates a lot of congestion, especially when they’re not in sync,” commentator ‘natsully’ said. “Need to better plan this area as it’s becoming busier.”
The David Low Bridge at Bli Bli was among the most talked about stretches of road.
“Definitely need a four-lane bridge here (two lanes each direction), plus catering for walking, riding and fishing,” ‘eidos’ said.
Other suggestions were for more cycling and walking paths, turning lanes, roundabouts and wildlife signs, improved drainage and a reduction of speed in many areas, including at the northern gateway of Coolum – near Stumers Creek and the sports precinct.
There were also several appeals to duplicate the Sunshine Motorway and create overpasses and on-ramps, although the motorway in general was not a feature of the consultation.
While planning is underway for the Maroochydore-Noosa route, there is currently no funding to progress the project.
Planning will identify priorities for consideration for future funding.
Read a related story: Have your say on region’s well-known roads, including an old-fashioned bridge
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the community’s voice would play an important role in long-term plans for the roads.
“This coastal route is used by over 15,000 vehicles a day and provides access to Bli Bli, Marcoola, Coolum and Peregian,” he said via a press release.
“The Sunshine Coast’s transport network has changed a lot since these roads were built in the 1960s, and we want to make sure future projects meet the needs of local residents.”
A TMR spokesperson said the department will review the feedback.
“The feedback included themes such as safety, improved access from side streets, improvements to active transport facilities and congestion concerns, particularly around Bradman Avenue and through Bli Bli and Coolum.”
“There were also requests for improvements to pedestrian facilities and traffic calming measures.
“This is a high-level planning project which will identify projects for consideration for future funding.”
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