New traffic signals on Bussell Highway to make intersection much safer

One of Bussell Highway's worst intersections - Washington Avenue at Bunbury - will be made safer, with new traffic signals and improvements.

Transport Minister Simon O'Brien said today a $1.15million contract to improve the intersection had been awarded to Southern Roads Services.

"This intersection is ranked number 13 in the City of Bunbury, with 31 crashes since January 2005," Mr O'Brien said.

"Of these, 22 have been rear-end type crashes, which usually indicate inattention and risk taking by impatient drivers.

"The signals will allow much safer traffic movements, with better flow and less risky driver behaviour." 

The works will also involve realigning the intersection, improved street lighting and drainage works to redirect storm water away from an adjacent Environmentally Sensitive Area.

Bunbury MLA John Castrilli said the works were being funded under the State Blackspot Program, with traffic analysis indicating unsatisfactory queuing times for vehicles, especially during peak periods. 

"Given the long queues, drivers are often impatient or uncertain when entering Bussell Highway, meaning they are more likely to pull out without really considering their own safety," Mr Castrilli said.

"Slight modifications to the intersection and new signals will improve road safety for locals and tourists travelling along Bussell Highway.

"It will also form stage one of works to address the traffic issues affecting the College Grove exit onto Bussell Highway."

The contract is due to commence this month, with work estimated to be completed by the end of August.