Speed signs target Maryborough High student safety

Slow down … Maryborough High School Principal Simon Done and Councillor Paul Truscott check out the new electronic speed signs on Kent Street, which are aimed at slowing traffic and improving student safety.

The safety of students and teachers crossing Kent Street between the Maryborough High School campuses has been boosted with the installation of electronic speed signs.

The signs display a happy face if motorists are driving at the required 40km/hr or a sad face if they are speeding.

The project is a joint initiative between the Queensland Department of Education and the Fraser Coast Regional Council which aims to ensure the safety of staff and students attending the school.

“Kent Street, which is a major access road to the Maryborough CBD, splits the Maryborough High campuses,” Cr Paul Truscott said.

“The speed limit along this section of Kent Street has been lowered to 40km/hr in school hours on school days, not just the two hours in the morning and afternoon during drop off and pick up times.

“The electronic signs will help reinforce the extended hours during which speed is limited.

“Council has also added extra speed cushions to the roadway to alert drivers they are approaching a pedestrian crossing and encourage motorists to slow down.”

The school is unique as it is split into two campuses – one either side of the busy thoroughfare and extended hours in which the special school zone speed limits apply.

The signs will operate from 7am to 4pm on school days to remind motorists that there is a special longer, speed limit on Kent Street between the campuses.

“The signs are an added safety tool,” Maryborough High School Principal Simone Done said.

“The need to ensure the safety of students and staff crossing Kent Street has increased as the school population has grown, and more students and staff are crossing the road to attend classes on the two campuses.”