Fencing to direct pedestrians
FREQUENT accidents have led to a fence being erected on Tugun's Gold Coast Hwy median strip.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads installed the $80,000, 256m steel fence as part of the Federal Government's Black Spot Program.
Coolangatta Police's Senior Sergeant Mark Johnston said directing pedestrians toward signalled crossings would reduce the number of accidents occurring on the highway.
"There have been various pedestrian accidents because people haven't been walking at the lights," Snr Sgt Johnston said.
"You've got to abide by the road rules and it's important to walk on the crossing for your own safety."
Tugun resident Renee Goodwin said she saw a number of cars drive close to pedestrians walking across the highway instead of using crossings.
"I always feared for their safety, especially children," she said.
"I'm very happy the fence was built."
The Black Spot Program was initiated to reduce the high number of accidents on Australian roads and provides funding for various safety measures, including barriers to prevent jaywalking.
Median fences have also been built along other sections of the highway including at Palm Beach and Mermaid Beach.
