Traffic controllers stationed in Barwon Heads have alleviated congestion this summer, Barwon Heads Association said.
The controllers have been employed to ease the traffic flow between Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads over the busy holiday period.
Stationed at the pedestrian crossing on the corner of Bridge Road and Hitchcock Avenue on both sides, the controllers are in the middle of a trial that is operating until 26 January.
The trial was implemented by Regional Roads Victoria and also includes a new left-hand turn lane onto Ewing Blyth Drive from Barwon Heads Bridge, to prevent queuing on the bridge and keep traffic flowing onto Bridge Road.
The measures have helped, Barwon Heads Association said.
“The Barwon Heads Association feels that the traffic wardens have made a big difference this summer,” BHA president Sandy Gatehouse told the Voice.
“We thank them for their contribution to the fun in town this summer. Not only have they done an excellent job, they appear to have enjoyed themselves and have people smiling as they cross the road.”
Public feedback has suggested that the traffic controllers work longer hours on warmer days.
“We have had feedback that it would help if they worked later on the hot beach days and we have passed this on,” Ms Gatehouse said.
“We encourage people to use the free bus from Barwon Heads to Ocean Grove. The tracker can be located on the Barwon Coast website.”
Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville echoed the positive feedback.
“The feedback I have had from residents and holidaymakers suggest that the changes have made a big difference,” she told the Voice.
“Following suggestions from the community I have asked Regional Roads Victoria to ensure on very hot days they have the traffic controllers there later.
“As this is a trial, a formal assessment will be done following Australia Day.”
Temporary electronic Variable Message Signs, utilising blue tooth technology, have also been installed to advise drivers of the travel time to Barwon Heads from Ocean Grove.
