Speed "cushions" are to be installed and a 30km an hour speed limit is proposed for Gordon Duff Drive as more people walk and play in our beautiful Lake Forbes surrounds.
While formal approval is pending, a new, lower speed limit has been recommended after a Transport for NSW review, at the request of the local traffic committee.
More walkers, cyclists and children are using the area since lake activation and beautification and that's only expected to increase with further works, a report to Forbes Shire Council's July meeting said.
"Community concerns and observed travel behaviour indicate that the current 50km/hr speed environment does not adequately protect vulnerable road users," acting director engineering Danial Speer said in his report to councillors.
A 40km/hr speed limit was proposed for the area but the review has led to recommendation of a 30km/hr limit, with council to introduce some traffic calming measures as well.
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"These measures not only help enforce the speed change but also enhance the functionality and safety of the roadway," the report said.
Council looked at a number of options including raised crossings and reduced lane width to slow traffic down with rubber speed cushions - at a cost of $15,000 - considered the best option.
"They can be quickly deployed and easily removed or adjusted if future modifications are required," Mr Speer's report said.
"Importantly, speed cushions do not disrupt existing stormwater flow paths, avoiding the need for additional drainage infrastructure.
"Their design also allows large wheelbase vehicles to straddle them, reducing noise."
Three of the rubber cushions will be installed on Gordon Duff Drive.
They'll be placed near Apex Park and the playground to enhance safety for children and families; just before the pedestrian crossing near the Camp Street end to slow approaching traffic; at the midpoint opposite the rugby union clubhouse to manage speed through the central section of the roadway.
The council will seek Transport for NSW approval to implement the 30km/hr speed zone.
