Council trials pedestrian crossings in Airlie Beach Main Street

Whitsunday Regional Council will commence a six-month pedestrian crossing trial in the Airlie Beach Main Street commencing December 1.

Mayor Julie Hall said Council is developing an overarching Airlie Beach Masterplan and this six-month pedestrian trial will capture key information that will help inform an ultimate streetscaping solution for the Main Street.

“During the six-month trial Council will be capturing direct formal and informal feedback from all users to help identify what works and what doesn’t work so we can utilise this information for future considerations for the Airlie Beach Masterplan to be developed in 2024.

“Your safety is our priority, and this trial aims to enhance pedestrian experiences and traffic flow with clear pedestrian crossing points, enhanced traffic management and improved pedestrian safety.

“Recent consultation with Airlie Beach Main Street businesses, key stakeholders, residents and visitors via face-to-face conversations, market stalls and an online survey helped identify safety concerns with the current vehicle priority status.

“In our consultation we were careful to try and capture all points of view from public transport, delivery drivers, cruise ship passengers, taxis, residents and visitors to our region,” Mayor Hall said.

“As a key tourism hub and cruise ship destination we want to make Airlie Beach a safe place for our

residents and visitors, so we are trialling the introduction of four pedestrian crossings in the Main Street commencing December 1.

“It is important that the trial captures feedback during peak holiday periods like Christmas but also during the quieter months in February and March, to ensure we have an accurate reflection on how the crossings trial impacts on the flow of the Main Street.

Mayor Hall said that Council’s focus was on planning for the future and this trial aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance Airlie Beach’s streetscape infrastructure and safety measures.

“As we navigate the next six months, Council officers will closely monitor the trial’s effectiveness and make informed decisions for the benefit of our community with the ultimate aim of creating a safer and more connected Airlie Beach.”

“We want to develop a solution that creates a pedestrian-friendly town for all ages and abilities, supports local businesses and our community and encourages safer speeds for drivers in the Main Street precinct.

“A Main Street that is a hive of pedestrian activity both during the day and night provides an environment that allows local businesses to thrive.

“Help us make the Main Street a safe precinct for all pedestrians by utilising Waterson Way if you are through traffic or utilise our free long-term parking in the Waterson Way carpark.”