Parkway Avenue cycling and safety improvements ready for new school year
- intouch Magazine
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
City of Newcastle is adding the finishing touches to a $2.1 million project which is improving safety for all road users at two key intersections in Hamilton South.
Upgrades to the roundabouts at Smith and National Park Streets along with new on-road cycle lanes have created a safer, more comfortable journey for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
Features of the project include the realignment of kerbs, the addition of six speed bumps, new shared path crossings and off-road cyclist bypasses, which will make it easier for people of all ages and abilities to move around the area safely and confidently.
The project has been delivered by City of Newcastle, utilising $469,000 from the Australian Government Black Spots Program, which is administered by Transport for NSW.
City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager of Transport and Regulation Ryan Tranter said Parkway Avenue is an important connecting route for schools, sportsgrounds, shopping centres and beaches.
“These changes have been designed to cater for everyone who travels through the area,” Mr Tranter said.
“We’ve made it safer for all users by slowing traffic on approach to the roundabouts, providing off-road cyclist bypasses at each roundabout, as well as designated on-road cycle lanes with a clear buffer to parked vehicles.
“This will help to address the conditions which have led to eight crashes in the past five years at these two roundabouts, with the majority involving cyclists.
“We’ve worked closely with Newcastle High to ensure the project aligns with the school’s transport management plans and supports NSW Schools Infrastructure's current campus development project, ensuring the new connections support the expected increase of students.
“The two raised shared path crossings on Parkway Avenue in front of the school will also improve pedestrian safety and we made sure to retain the heritage character of Parkway Avenue and its beautiful tree-lined median.
“Our engagement period in 2024 showed the community overwhelming supported the safety and cycling improvements this project is delivering.”
Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said the completion of the Parkway Avenue project is a real win for our community.
“These improvements make it safer and easier for people of all ages to walk, ride and connect with their neighbourhood,” Ms Claydon said.
“Good cycling infrastructure saves lives. By providing options to separate bikes from traffic and improving visibility, we’re making our streets safer for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike.
“This project, backed by a $469,000 investment from the Albanese Labor Government, is about giving people genuine transport choices.
“Whether you’re riding to school, commuting to work, or out for exercise, this cycleway delivers safer connections and a healthier, more liveable Newcastle.”
In addition to the black spot funding which addressed the roundabout safety improvements and the two shared-path crossings, City of Newcastle has funded additional upgrades including the eight shared-path cyclist roundabout bypasses and the two on-road cycle lanes.
The project aligns with City of Newcastle’s 'On Our Bikes' Cycling Plan (2021-2030) and will support future cycleway connections to the Harbour Foreshore, creating a more connected, accessible city.
Newcastle Cycleways Movement president Nev Jones said the project design offers choices for cyclists.
“The shared paths and crossings are there for less confident riders, while experienced cyclists can continue through the roundabout on-road by claiming the lane,” Mr Jones said.
"The changes to Parkway Avenue near Newcastle High School are expected to slow vehicle speeds at the roundabouts, improving safety for pedestrians and people of all ages riding bikes.
“The changes are a positive step toward a safer school precinct."
City of Newcastle will complete the final stage of the project by early February including line marking, signage and landscaping.
