Shakespeare Street roundabout even safer than before

Most heavy trucks are now easily and safely navigating the improved Shakespeare Street roundabout in Cambridge.

That’s the finding now that Waipā District Council has completed some final touches to the roundabout, following recommendations from a post-construction safety audit.

Transport Manager Bryan Hudson said inspections and monitoring of the roundabout showed most trucks are now coping easily with the updated road layout.

“The lane markings have been adjusted, and some of the rubber bump spokes around the roundabout have been shortened to improve flow,” he said.

Longer bolts have been used to secure the rubber spokes to prevent them from coming loose. High-use vehicle entrances have ‘dual pathway’ markings painted on the paths. The redundant line marking has been removed, and additional lane markings realigned on the Cook Street approach.

“Signs and marking changes should help prevent drivers from mounting the kerb. We expect the berm grass to now have a chance to grow back,” Hudson said.

The audit, undertaken by Safe System Solutions who also reviewed the design before construction, shows that the improvements have reduced speeds at the roundabout, slowed drivers turning, and enhanced safety for people walking.

These changes are part of the district's ongoing efforts to introduce traffic-calming measures, ensuring streets are safer and more accessible for everyone, especially vulnerable path users such as school children.

Repairing and resealing Shakespeare Street beyond the intersection (towards Ferguson Bridge) is scheduled for the New Year.