NZTA to enhance pedestrian safety in Paihia

TIN news:  The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is planning to enhance the safety of pedestrians by using signals with responsive technology at crossings on State Highway 11 at Paihia’s waterfront in Far North district. 

The transport agency explained that the signals deployed at this crossing will be first of its kind in the Far North district that would not only improve pedestrian safety, but also ensure free traffic movement through the town centre.

NZTA has taken this decision in response to the increasing number of tourists to Paihia, who use the crossing to access the town centre, after arriving in cruise ships.

Northland Safety and Network Performance manager Tim Crow said: “The technology, which is known as a puffin crossing, uses detectors to measure pedestrian movements and help people cross the road safely.

“It responds to the pace of the person crossing to extend the crossing time if it’s needed or cancels the pedestrian phase if someone decides not to cross. 

“This increases safety for pedestrians and removes frustrations for motorists because it means traffic isn’t waiting for periods when there are no pedestrians.

“The technology is relatively new to New Zealand but has proved to be very effective in the United Kingdom over the past ten years.”

The agency further added that works have already started at the crossing for installing poles and bases for the controllers, and also noted that they will be implementing certain changes to the footpath and road, along with markings over the next month.