Major Pedestrian Safety Upgrades Coming to Wangaratta CBD

Published on 18 August 2025

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The Rural City of Wangaratta will begin construction on three new wombat crossings in the Wangaratta CBD later this year. The crossings are aimed at improving pedestrian safety and accessibility in high-traffic areas.

 

The works are funded through the Victorian Safe System Pedestrian Infrastructure Program, an initiative of the Department of Transport and Planning. These upgrades are part of a $23 million statewide investment to improve safety for pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.

 

This project supports Council’s Walking and Cycling Strategy 2020–2030 and the Wangaratta Project CBD Masterplan, both shaped by community input and prioritised actions. The CBD is a busy area with high foot traffic due to its mix of office, retail and commercial spaces. Installing wombat crossings at key points will boost safety for pedestrians and freight vehicles, while improving connectivity across shopping, dining, business and recreational zones. Crash data from January 2018 to December 2022 highlights locations where safety upgrades are needed.

 

Wombat Crossing Locations

  • Ford Street (Ovens Street end): Located at the Ovens Street roundabout. Existing zebra crossing to be removed. 
  • Ford Street (Murphy Street end): Located 40 m north of the Murphy Street roundabout, replacing the existing zebra crossing. 
  • Faithfull Street: Located mid-block (between Ovens and Murphy Street) near Victoria Parade. 

 

In addition to the wombat crossings, a pedestrian-operated traffic signal will be installed on Reid Street, mid-block between Ovens and Murphy Streets, at the current uncontrolled crossing point.

 

Irene Grant, Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor

"These upgrades are a vital step in making our CBD safer and more accessible for everyone, especially pedestrians and we will rely on the community’s patience as we deliver these important improvements."

 

Community Drop-in Sessions

Drop-in sessions to discuss the project will take place later this month at Rural City of Wangaratta Government Centre Foyer, 62–68 Ovens Street, Wangaratta. Session Times: Thursday 21 August 2025 – 3:30 to 4:30pm; Tuesday 26 August 2025 – 12:00 to 1:00pm

 

Construction Timeline:

  • Works will commence in October 2025
  • Completion is expected by December 2025

 

Traffic management measures will be in place throughout the construction period, including temporary road and footpath closures and restricted parking. Council is working to minimise disruption and maintain access to local businesses and services.

 

For more information and updates visit www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Development/Our-projects/Safe-System-Pedestrian-Infrastructure-Program

 

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