Alex Karki
BEng (Hons) MEng(Res) UNSW, MAITPM, MIEA
Principal Traffic & Parking Engineer
Sydney Traffic Engineers (www.trafficengineers.sydney)
To address the increasing traffic congestion in North Kellyville and surrounding areas, including Hezlett Road, Samantha Riley Drive, Barry Road, Withers Road, and Commercial Road, an Integrated Transport Action Plan (ITAP) for the Hills District is essential. Over the next five years, a coordinated approach between The Hills Shire Council and Transport NSW is needed to develop this action plan. Below is an outline of the Key Focus Areas for this action plan:
Traffic Congestion Integrated Transport Action Plan
1. Road Infrastructure Improvements
- Road Widening and Upgrades: Major arterials such as Windsor Road, Samantha Riley Drive, and Withers Road need widening and capacity improvements to handle increasing traffic volumes.
- Intersection Improvements: Key intersections, especially those connecting local roads with major arterials, should be upgraded with better traffic signals, turning lanes, and roundabouts to reduce bottlenecks.
2. Public Transport Enhancements
- Increase Public Transport Options: Expanding bus routes and frequencies, particularly in underserved areas such as North Kellyville, would help reduce reliance on cars.
- Improve Accessibility: Developing better connections to the Sydney Metro and other major transit hubs will encourage more residents to shift to public transport, relieving road congestion.
3. Traffic Management and Smart Technologies
- Smart Traffic Signals: Implement intelligent traffic systems to manage peak-hour flows, minimize delays, and prioritize emergency or public transport vehicles.
- Real-Time Traffic Monitoring: Utilize real-time traffic data to manage congestion dynamically, rerouting traffic when necessary and informing drivers through updated signs and apps.
4. Sustainable Transport Initiatives
- Cycling and Walking Infrastructure: Invest in pedestrian pathways and cycling routes to promote sustainable, car-free modes of transportation, particularly for short trips within North Kellyville and nearby neighborhoods.
- Park-and-Ride Facilities: Develop park-and-ride facilities near major public transport hubs to encourage residents to use public transport instead of driving all the way to work or other destinations.
5. Coordination and Community Engagement
- Council and Transport NSW Collaboration: Ensure continuous and close coordination between The Hills Shire Council and Transport NSW to oversee the implementation of the action plan.
- Community Involvement: Engage the community regularly to collect feedback on traffic conditions and proposed infrastructure projects, ensuring that the action plan addresses their needs and concerns.
