STAFF WRITERS
MEMBER for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath has written to the state government about school road safety concerns in the Traralgon CBD, following a visit from a local primary school student.
Ms Bath has subsequently written to the Minister for Local Government, Nick Staikos asking him to intervene and collaborate with Latrobe City Council to implement better parking solutions around the schools within the CBD.
“Makinlee visited my office in mid-January with her mother Julie to ask for assistance to address her valid road safety concerns in the after school traffic congestion,” Ms Bath said.
“With the start of the new school year, she felt compelled to act to help improve student road safety before there is an accident.
“Makinlee clearly articulated the dangers involved with student pickups at the end of each school day as she attempts to navigate the traffic to reach her mother.
“We took a walk, and the numerous safety issues were highlighted including double parked cars and the lack of parking spaces in and around Grey Street.”
Ms Bath said with her office located close to both Traralgon’s CBD-based primary schools, she is familiar with the extensive congestion at the end of each weekday.
“The situation is evidently stressful for children and their families,” Ms Bath said.
“A number of solutions presented to me included expanding parking, improved signage, enhancing traffic management and more local laws enforcement officers.
“Improving road safety around our schools is vital, and I am looking forward to receiving a positive response from the Minister, so a safer and more efficient environment is achieved for our youngest citizens.
“I congratulate Makinlee for the exemplary leadership and maturity she demonstrated advocating for the safety and wellbeing of her peers.
“As the school year has commenced it is timely to remind all drivers to be aware of school zones, drive with care, park in designated parking zones only and always drive with patience in after school traffic.”
