Flashing lights now installed at Raymond Terrace

11-November-2011

Port Stephens MP Craig Baumann has advised flashing lights are now in operation near Raymond Terrace Public School to increase school zone pedestrian safety.

“These lights were installed to maximise safety for our local children,” Mr Baumann said.

“Flashing lights slow motorists down around schools and warn them they are approaching a school.”

The lights were installed as part of the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government $13 million commitment to accelerate the rollout of flashing lights in NSW schools.

Mr Baumann said Anna Bay Public School's lights on Gan Gan Road are expected to be operational next week.

He said lights will operate automatically when school zone speed limits are in force and increase drivers’ awareness of school zones.

“The lights have been installed on Adelaide Street and Jacaranda Avenue in Raymond Terrace and will operate automatically between 8am and 9.30am and 2.30pm and 4pm on school days during term time,” he said.

Flashing lights are linked to a central computer system which operates lights across the state.

The lights use LED (light-emitting diode) technology which provides brighter light and is more energy efficient.

By the end of 2011 there will be 746 flashing light school zones across the state covering more than 900 schools.

This is more than a quarter of all the schools in NSW.

The full list of installed sites is available on the RTA website, and is regularly updated.

Sites are chosen based on set criteria including traffic and pedestrian volumes, crash history and risk, speed limits, the road environment and visibility.