Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Signage accelerates road safety message
Signage accelerates road safety message
A new high-tech signage system along Mt Albert Road aims to get speedsters to take their foot off the accelerator.
This week, four electronic feedback signs are being installed at black spots along the busy arterial road.
Using radar, the custom-made signage detects approaching vehicle speeds. The speed data is then processed and illuminated on the sign’s solar-power LED (light emitting diode) panel as vehicles drive past.
The community project is a joint effort by Auckland City and Mt Roskill Community Board, which has contributed around half of the total $100,000 cost.
“With the full support of the community board, Auckland City is using the latest technology to accurately calculate and signal motorists’ speeds,” says the council’s traffic safety manager, Karen Hay.
“The technology allows us to trial a new road safety technique along this busy arterial route, where it isn’t feasible to install speed bumps or other physical speed restriction facilities.”
“Auckland City’s traffic safety team is working hard to use innovation to boost road safety across the city.”
Other Auckland City projects using this LED technology include the 40km/h speed zone signs at St Joseph’s School in Onehunga, the installation of new traffic lights at intersections across the city and a road safety trial using solar studs in Ngapipi Road, Orakei.
Following a high number of crashes on Mt Albert Road, the aim of this latest initiative is to reduce overall traffic speeds by encouraging driver awareness.
There were 86 loss-of-control crashes along the length of Mt Albert Road between 2000 and 2005, with 53 crashes occurring between Mt Eden and Sandringham roads.
“Many motorists are not aware of just how fast they are travelling as they drive about the city,” says Ms Hay.
“We’re expecting the signs to increase driver awareness. No doubt people will be surprised at what is displayed on the sign and will slow down accordingly.”
A speed survey was taken on Mt Albert Road before the start of the project. Further surveys will be taken at regular monthly intervals during the course of the 12-month trial to assess its effectiveness.
Ends
Gordon Campbell: On What’s Wrong With The Treaty Principles Bill
Ministry For Culture And Heritage: Reverberations Of Erebus Disaster Still Felt 45 Years Later
Watercare Services: No Cause For Concern After Slightly Elevated Levels Of Arsenic Detected In Treated Waikato River Water
Te Pāti Māori: Government’s First Year A ‘Catastrophe For Māori’
Department Of Internal Affairs: Samoan Citizenship Bill Passes Into Law
NZ National Party: National Acknowledges The Passing Of Hon Nikki Kaye
Mana Mokopuna: Children And Young People Share Vital Insights On Healing From Family Violence And Sexual Violence In New Report
