Crossing on the cards for Pomona's pedestrian problem news

REPRESENTATIVES from state and local government met in Pomona recently to discuss a pedestrian crossing for the town’s main thoroughfare, following calls from the community.

Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton's advocacy in this area resulted in a meeting on Factory Street with representatives from Noosa Council and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) for further discussions.

Sandy said the outcome of the meeting was a potential location for a "much-needed crossing" which is currently being assessed by TMR.

"We need to provide the best safety for all who traverse this road daily to access essential services and stay connected to our community.

"It was great to see an agreement to move forward and we will be able to update when the safest option can be confirmed. Be assured we have put forward why this must be prioritised for funding," said Sandy.

A TMR spokesperson said they are working with Sandy Bolton and Noosa Council on possible concepts for a safe and appropriate crossing facility on Factory Street.

“Funding for any future crossing infrastructure would need to be assessed against other state-wide priorities.”

Noosa Council communications manager Ken Furdek said the placemaking pilot in Pomona, which will start in a few months, will look at “movement and access” through the town as well as many other potential initiatives.

“Pedestrian crossings, where state roads are concerned, are the responsibility of the Department of Transport and Main Roads, but as a key stakeholder, council will work with TMR officials and the community as the placemaking project progresses,” he said.

The Pomona & District Chamber of Commerce (PDCC) president Phil Moran said it is looking forward to the placemaking study to have a say on matters such as crossings.

“We look forward to the appointment of consultants for Noosa Council's placemaking study for Pomona, where both business and private input will be considered in this matter, and the town precinct in general.

“The PDCC supports any options that increase safety in Pomona and thanks Sandy Bolton MP for her intervention,” Phil said.

Save Noosa Hinterland Inc. group has been advocating for pedestrian crossings in Pomona since 2020 (Cooroy Rag 12 April 2023).

Save Noosa Hinterland spokesperson Nick Cooke said they identified the need for crossings in several locations, particularly on Factory Street near the railway path and Hill Street near Cooroora Creek dog park.

"These locations are quarry truck haulage routes and see many pedestrians, including local school kids.

"We were not notified of the recent agreement reached by Noosa Council and TMR.

"We saw an update on Sandy Bolton MP's website that said the outcome of the meeting was a location for an island, which we are concerned about.

"We need zebra crossings. They are much safer as they require vehicles and trucks to actually stop and give way.

"We have requested Noosa Council and Sandy Bolton MP include Save Noosa Hinterland Inc as a key stakeholder and advisory group for the Placemaking Study and the planning of these crossings. We need the safest option for the town," Nick said.