Footpath, refuge island or zebra crossing: How can this Kempsey school improve safety for students?

A lack of pedestrian access outside Kempsey Adventist School (KAS), located on a main road with a 70km/h speed limit, has sparked safety concerns from parents and students. 

Kempsey Shire Council is currently looking into improving the situation, and is taking suggestions from locals.

📢 What happened: In August, KAS student representatives presented their concerns to council, pointing out a dangerous narrow bridge nearby across Rudders Lagoon which did not have a footpath.

• Their solutions included a dedicated path, a bike lane, and refuge island.

🧐 Council investigating options: In response to the community concerns, the council is investigating safer options and seeking assistance from residents. 

• The public are being encouraged to submit particular issues, together with suggestions on the type and location of pedestrian improvement works.

• According to the council, initial investigations have identified the need for an “off road” footpath with road crossing facilities, like a marked zebra crossing or refuge island. 

✏️What next? Council has proposed to present preferred improvement works to the Local Traffic Committee meeting in November. The advice will then be reported for council consideration.

🗣️How to have your say: Submit your ideas to council by October 31.

Email: [email protected]
In person or by letter: 22 Tozer Street, West Kempsey
Phone: 6566 3200