School crossing set for high school area

A 40km school zone crossing is likely to be introduced adjacent to Karratha Senior High School, following ongoing safety concerns from the community over the current school crossing on Dampier Highway.

The safety of students crossing this section of road has been a concern for residents since the school relocated to its current site in August 2013.

In May 2014 Main roads announced the crossing would be manned by traffic wardens, with additional wig wag lighting installed at the intersection of Dampier Highway and Broadhurst Road.

However, Karratha Senior High School is one of three schools in the area which has been without any traffic wardens this year to help students cross the road safely.

City of Karratha mayor Peter Long said the wig wag lights installed at the Broadhurst Road and Dampier Highway intersection had caused confusion and were ineffective unless used in conjunction with a traffic warden.

“Council has always advocated for an alternate design as we feel the current design is sub optimal,” he said.

“The wig wag lights that were installed are supposed to be used in conjunction with a traffic warden during school drop off and pick up hours but that position has still not been filled.

“We have applied for funding under the Black Spot Program to replace the roundabout with traffic signals however that is likely to take some time to implement.”

Mr Long said the City of Karratha was currently working with Main Roads to implement a school zone of 40km/h during drop off and pick up times.

“In the meantime we are trying to reinforce the message that pedestrians must give way to vehicles and have installed new signage along the footpaths and notified the school,” he said.

A spokeswoman from Main Roads WA said they were working hard with WA Police, the Road Safety Commission and the School to find a solution to protect children using the crossing.

“Consideration is currently being given to introduce a 40 km/h zone on Dampier Road, adjacent to Karratha High School,” she said.

“In addition to the flashing warning signals already in place, additional warning signage has been installed.

“School guard crossings are the responsibility of the WA Police School Crossing unit.”

KSHS acting principal Jennifer McMahon said was pleased to see a more coordinated approach between government agencies to improve the crossing.

“Ultimately it’s the safety of the students that is our priority,” she said.

“We will continually reinforce to our students to make good choices when they get to that crossing or any time before school or after school.”