Linda Martin

LINDA MARTIN Question 1 When will the Noosa Council's Noosa Traffic Study Update be completed and findings be released specifically in relation to a safe pedestrian crossing on Eumundi- Noosa Road in the vicinity between Beckmans and Rene Street Roundabout? Response provided by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director Infrastructure Services Thank you for the question. Firstly, Council acknowledges the challenges of crossing these busy sections of road. Council has approved the update to the Noosa Traffic Study as part of the 2024/25 budget. The study is currently in progress and is expected to be completed by June 2025. This study is a critical technical document that will guide infrastructure planning for the next 30 years. Council will analyse the data to determine the need for various traffic improvement projects, including safer pedestrian crossings. It is also noted that Council’s Walking and Cycling Strategy has also identified the need for safer, more convenient pedestrian crossings on Eumundi-Noosa Road. Any proposed traffic improvements projects will be subject to Council’s budget deliberations. Council can also use the Traffic Study to support grant applications. Council will certainly undertake public consultation program as part of any approved projects. Question 2 How exactly is safe access to the new footpath being constructed as part of the Tewantin Bypass on Eumundi Noosa Road to be gained with the current non connecting paths and lack of a safe pedestrian crossing issue in the vicinity? Response provided by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director Infrastructure Services Thanks again for the question. The intersections of Beckmans Road, Eumundi- Noosa Road is part of Council managed road infrastructure, but the proposed upgrades, including the Beckmans Road duplication, also known as the Tewantin Bypass, are subject to Department of Transport and Main Roads funding under a long-standing commitment by the Queensland Government. The Department of Transport and Main Roads have currently committed $8.5million for planning future stages of the Tewantin Bypass. Only preliminary concepts have been prepared, and design is yet to commence. Council acknowledges the challenges of crossing this busy section of road and has identified the need for safer, more convenient pedestrian crossings in this locality and will be advocating for this outcome as part of negotiations with the Department of Transport and Main Roads.