Safety upgrades are being planned for several key streets across Wangaratta, after Rural City of Wangaratta Council secured $2 million in Victorian Government funding through the Safe Local Roads and Streets Program.
The Council will use the funding to deliver the works across the CBD and surrounding streets to improve safety for people walking, cycling and driving, particularly in busy areas near schools, the hospital, and the railway station.
“These projects are about making our streets safer and more accessible for everyone,” said Mayor, Irene Grant.
“They will improve connections to important places like schools, shops and the hospital, and support a more walkable and bike‑friendly Wangaratta.”
The funding forms part of the Victorian Government’s $200–$210 million statewide program and will be used to improve safety on high‑risk local roads. The works align with Council’s Walking and Cycling Strategy 2020–2030 and the CBD Masterplan.
Council is currently completing detailed design, with construction expected to begin from August and continue in stages through to December 2026. Residents and businesses will receive more detailed information as each stage of work approaches.
Planned works include a new wombat crossing on Green Street at the hospital entrance. Road reconstruction works on Green Street will be delivered at the same time and funded by Council.
A new shared path will also be built between Wangaratta Railway Station and the Rowan Street overpass, providing a safer connection to the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail.
On Ovens Street, between Warby Street and Ford/Docker Street, the project includes a new centre median, two wombat crossings, and upgrades to the existing school crossing.
The upgrades are based on risk assessments, crash data and community feedback calling for safer pedestrian crossings, better walking and cycling connections and measures to address speed related safety concerns, particularly around key destinations.
Project updates can be found here: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Safe-Local-Roads-Streets-Program.
