New crossing to improve pedestrian safety in Mackay City Centre

A scramble crossing involves stopping all vehicles in all directions for one “traffic light cycle” and letting pedestrians cross in any direction.

Mayor Greg Williamson said this type of crossing was a first for the region.

“This section of road is a hot spot for large numbers of pedestrians crossing the road to enter the Showgrounds precinct,” he said.

“The precinct also has businesses operating in the area on a daily basis, along with the Saturday farmer’s markets, the annual Mackay Show and visiting entertainment troupes and circuses.”

Works are expected to start on Monday (February 1) and continue until early April (weather permitting).

Mayor Williamson said scramble crossings were used in other towns and cities, including Brisbane CBD.

“Scramble crossings reduce the wait time for pedestrians, minimise the time they spend in harm’s way and lower the chance of serious injury,” he said.

Motorists are advised there will be changed traffic conditions during the works.

Milton Street traffic will remain operating in both directions in a single lane capacity.

Alfred Street, between Peel and Milton streets, will be closed and restricted to local traffic only.

Scramble crossings are safer for pedestrians as they remove cars from the intersection completely, rather than relying on cars to give way to pedestrians on a green light.

The project is funded by the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program, contributing $1,581,504 towards this project.