Governors Drive and Explorers Road Lapstone Traffic Review

Governors Drive and Explorers Road

Lapstone Traffic Review

August 2018

Lapstone Traffic Review – August 2018 Page 2 of 26

Introduction

Reason for this investigation

At the ordinary meeting of the Council on 27th June 2017, it was resolved:

MINUTE NO. 208

32. 17/117677. Parking arrangements Governors Drive and Explorers Road in Lapstone

A MOTION was MOVED by Councillors Van der Kley and Christie:

1. That the Council notes community concerns with the level of traffic congestion and the

impact on local residents of cars parking along Governors Drive and Explorers Road in Lapstone; and

2. That the Council receives a report of the levels of traffic along Governors Drive and Explorers

Road, Lapstone, the impact of current parking arrangements and potential treatments to improve

traffic flow in this area.

Community concerns with the level of perceived and reported traffic congestion and the impact of

car parking on local residents in the areas of Governors Drive and Explorers Road in Lapstone have

prompted this traffic review.

This report will investigate the level of traffic, the impact of parking arrangements and any potential

treatments to improve traffic flow in these areas.

Background information on the project

As with other residential local roads in the Blue Mountains, Explorers Road and Governors Drive are

50 kph zone residential streets. Both roads act as collector roads for the areas of Lapstone and

Glenbrook.

Explorers Road features straight and curved areas of road geometry. Lapstone Pre-School and

Lapstone Public school are located on Explorers Road with an accompanying 40 kph school zone.

Explorers Road, Lapstone is home to the sportsground of Lapstone Oval and Lapstone netball courts.

It accommodates local netball, rugby and tennis. The main off-road carpark for the sports field and

netball courts have been upgraded, sealed and line marked. Residents have raised their concerns in

regard to issues with congestion and parking during high use periods.

Governors Drive features undulating geography, curving road geometry narrow areas and crests. The

northern end of Governors Drive connects to the Great Western Highway (GWH). Residents have

expressed concerns with speeding and parking behaviour.

The attributes of these locations will be further elaborated on in the review of the area.


Methodology

1. Review of existing information data

A review of previous investigations and existing background material was conducted. This included

customer service requests from residents citing speeding, poor driving and parking behaviour.

Correspondence was received from Police and feedback from Council officers including Rangers and

Recreation staff.

A desktop review of Roads and Maritime Service (RMS) NSW Centre for Road Safety crash data using

Council’s MapInfo system was undertaken of each segment. This data includes crashes up to the end

of December 2016 and is reported on in the review of each segment. It should be noted that

changes to the reporting of crash data have occurred and crash self-reporting including self-reported

injuries began in October 2014. Trends from 2014 are expected to vary from previous years with

more unknowns expected in self-reported data. Bus data was received from the CDC Bus Company

regarding bus routes.

A road safety audit was conducted of Explorers Road between Achievement Avenue and Governors

Drive in August 2015 by Calibre Consulting. Road safety risks were identified at specific locations but

there were no comments specifically on traffic flow or parking behaviour. The report identified that

there were a high number of pedestrians during peak events such as sporting events and school

hours.

A review of previous and current traffic surveys data for Explorers Road and Governors Drive was

also undertaken to examine speed and volume. Road characteristics will also be reported on to

include information on road length and pavement condition in the review.

2. Inspections

An initial project team visit was conducted in January 2018 to identify appropriate segments for

traffic investigation and initial traffic concerns. A template was prepared to provide a consistent

inspection process.

The investigation area was divided into the following segments:

1. Explorers Rd from Lucasville Rd to Emu Rd.

2. Explorers Rd from Emu Rd to Governors Drive.

3. Explorers Rd, from Governors Drive to Lapstone Station including Dawes Place.

4. Governors Drive from Byrne St to Explorers Rd.

5. Governors Drive from Explorers Rd to Hume Rd.

6. Governors Drive Hume to Tunnel Gully Bridge.

A series of six inspections were undertaken in February of each segment. These included weekday

and a Saturday inspections where relevant to assess any traffic flow and parking issues during the

peak period of winter sporting activity. Existing data and inspection results have also been reviewed

and incorporated in the results as they relate to each segment.


Figure 1: Map of segments – BMCC MapInfo system

Results

Segment 1 Explorers Rd from Lucasville Rd to Emu Rd.

Background

This segment connects Glenbrook to Lapstone and the Great Western Highway and is a 50 kph zone.

It is also an entry point to Lapstone Public School and a key part of the local bus route.

The road length in this segment is 758 metres. Road widths vary in two locations, Lucasville Road to

Avoca Rd, 6 metre wide and Avoca Rd to Emu Road is 7 metres wide. (Data, BMCC Asset register).

In terms of the condition of the road pavement, the overall condition index which considers surface

and pavement or structural distresses of this segment is considered excellent. There is some

cracking in the area from Explorers Rd from Lucasville to Avoca Rd. The standard in this particular

location for roughness is considered fair. In examining, Explorers Rd, Avoca Rd to Grey St, the

overall condition (OCI) and Pavement Condition (PCI) is excellent but in terms of roughness (Average

IRI), in this location it is considered good with the exception of Grey Street which is considered poor.

(BMCC Pavement Condition data) (See appendix for definitions of Pavement Indexes)

Although there are two areas with a greater degree of roughness, from a traffic perspective the

segment functions well with no impact from these conditions.


A review of crash data using Councils MapInfo system shows that since 1998 - 2016, 8 tow-away

crashes and 6 injury crashes reported in this segment. The majority of crashes were off road crashes

and into objects (not vehicles). One of the injury crashes occurred in the past five year period and

this was an off road crash on a bend, speeding was identified as a contributing factor. The other

injury was vehicle pedestrian crash near the intersection of Explorers and Grey Street.

From the background review of information there are no crucial additional issues to report.

Current Traffic Conditions and Challenges:

Inspection Monday 19th

of February 2:30pm (EK, SM)

This segment is part of the connection for Glenbrook to Lapstone and the Great Western Highway. It

is also an entry point for Lapstone Public School. It forms part of the school bus route and is also

primarily residential. The inspection was conducted while school zone conditions were in operation.

A refuge inhabits the intersection of Explorers Rd and Lucasville Rd, which does not meet current

Australian standards (AS1742.10). The width of the island is not correct and requires advanced

warning signage. There is a give way sign near the refuge, which has double barrier lines to the

guardrail.

There are faded double barrier lines from Avoca to Lucasville Rd. Line markings at the intersections

are faded. Straight sections are considered adequate in terms of sight distance.

The road contains straight, curved and sloped areas. A sharp bend in this segment restricts the line

of sight. Signage in this segment advises of the curved road, slow and duck signage as well as 50kph

speed advisory signs.

This segment also includes rollover kerb, pedestrian footpaths, formal parking arrangements and no

stopping areas. It also forms part of a bus route and has bus stops. The length of the guardrail on the

straight, between 7 and 19 Explorers Road is 115 metres. There is a pedestrian path on the opposite

side of the road in this location.

Review

• An increase in traffic flow was observed flowing in and out of the school zone which begins

at Emu Road.

• No restrictions regarding parking arrangements but there is no on-street parking in parts of

the segment. Some parking was observed on verge areas.

• The overall condition of the road pavement was observed to be good.

• Crash data review determined minor crashes but these were not related to parking or traffic

flow issues.

Recommended Actions

It was observed that parking and parking behaviour is not impacting on traffic flow. From the review

of background information and correspondence this segment does not appear to be considered the

key area of concern in regards to congestion and parking. However the following actions can be

undertaken and would be noted to improve road safety


• Renewal of line marking as required double barrier lines on curves and at intersections.

• Install advanced warning signs for pedestrian refuge.

• Upgrade pedestrian refuge to meet current Australian standards when renewal is required.

Segment 2 - Explorers Rd from Emu Rd to Governors Drive

Background

This segment is part of the connection for Glenbrook to Lapstone and the Great Western Highway.

The key usage of this area is as a sports precinct and school zone. The segment includes a sports

ground, tennis courts, netball courts and rugby fields. The school zone operates from Emu Road and

includes Lapstone Public School and Lapstone Pre-School. There are also residential aspects to this

segment.

Upgrades were conducted in the off-road carpark adjacent to the Netball Courts on Explorers Road

which has included sealing and formalising parking spaces to include, line marking and signage,

accessible parking spaces and drop off points within the car park. The car park adjacent to the Tennis

Courts is also sealed and line marked.

Road Length in this segment is 930 metres. There are two variations in road width. From Emu Road

to Achievement Avenue is 7 metres in width, to Walton Rd. Walton Rd to Governors Drive is 8.5

metres. (Data, BMCC Asset register).

In terms of the road condition of this segment of road pavement, the overall condition index which

considers surface and pavement or structural distresses of this segment is considered excellent.

Average IRI or roughness is considered fair /good in Achievement Rd to Walton Rd (There is line

cracking in one location). Pavement Condition Index (PCI): which considers pavement distress is

rated as good/excellent. (BMCC, Pavement Condition data)

Crash data since 1996, there has been 14 injury crashes and 11 tow-away crashes. Since 2014, there

have been 2 tow away crashes recorded in this segment. (BMCC, MapInfo crash statistics). One of

these crashes was a rear end crash with distraction being a factor. In the majority of the injury

crashes were off road / on bend crashes where speed and sometimes wet conditions were

contributing factors.

Due to concerns regarding road and pedestrian safety, and a crash history of run-off crashes on the

bends between Achievement Avenue and Lapstone Oval, Council received RMS Blackspot program in

2013/2014. This funding enabled a safety upgrade to Explorers Road in this segment. Works

included the installation of a raised median, curve and advisory signs, installation of guardrail on

roadside and at Explorers Road and Achievement Avenue to 500 metres east.

A Road Safety Audit was conducted by Calibre Consulting in August 2015 to review this area. The

audit considered the traffic facilities, devices and infrastructure in this location. They observed a

“high number of pedestrians during specific peak hours associated with sports events and Lapstone

Pre-School during school hours, weekends and sporting events”. The report detailed issues and

potential road safety risks; it also noted that Explorers Road near Lapstone Public School that the

northern side of Explorers Road, the grassed verge is used for parking by staff and visitors to the

school. They identified some damage to the pavement edge. There were no shoulders or edge lines


in this location. In terms of the focus of this traffic review there were no other relevant items to

report.

Speed count surveys conducted were during June 2018, results in Table 1, represent a 7 day sample

of the winter peak period. These were positioned near the Pre-School corner of Achievement &

Explorers Rd

Date 11-16 June 2018

Location Explorers Road

Near Lapstone Pre-school

Average speed

Both directions

52.5kph

85th percentile

Both directions

58.5kph

AM Peak weekday

(vehicle volume)

Both directions

9am -10am

Range (242 - 269).

Average = 258

PM Peak weekday

(vehicle volumes)

Both directions

6pm-7pm

Range (249-645)

Average = 337

AM Peak weekend

(vehicle volume)

Both directions

11am-1pm

Saturday (468)

Sunday (167)

PM Peak weekend

(vehicle volume)

Both directions

12pm-1pm

Saturday (475)

Sunday (214)

Table 1: Summary of traffic count data Explorers Road, Lapstone

It can be noted that the 85th

percentile is 58.5kph is high. Average speed in both directions was

52.5kph. From the traffic survey data, volumes were higher during Saturday peak times associated

with sports activities than AM/PM peaks on weekdays. Volumes were at there highest (645) on key

weekday evening this can be assumed to be sports training times and peak commute times. From

the recorded traffic volumes, Saturday peak volumes were high which reflected the usage periods

for Saturday sporting activities.

In terms of traffic impacts, the RTA Guide to Traffic Generating Developments, 2002 provides

information on traffic volumes for collector roads with a maximum speed of 50kmh. In terms of

environmental considerations 300 is considered the desirable maximum peak hour performance

with a recommendation of an absolute maximum of 500 being the goal for this road class.

Current Traffic Conditions and Challenges

• Inspection 1 - 9:30am Thursday 15/2/2018 (TM, EK & SM)

• Inspection 2 - 1pm Saturday 17 February (non – sports period) (EK, SM)

• Inspection 3 - 8:30am – 11:30am Saturday 16th

of June (peak sports season) (EK, SM)

This area is one of the key areas of concern in relation to parking and traffic flow, therefore three

inspections were conducted; a weekday morning, a Saturday morning out of sports season and a

Saturday morning during peak sports season.


The initial inspection focussed on observations of road geometry and traffic devices. The road

geometry features straight, curved and sloped areas. Existing infrastructure and traffic devices in this

segment include; T- intersection (Governors Drive/ Explorers Rd), existing shared path off road. In

non-peak time this segment generally caters to the size of the vehicles that use it.

As noted the segment contains a school zone (40kph) which begins at Emu Road and finishes on the

curves before the sporting facilities. This area includes school zone signage and a pedestrian crossing

near Achievement Avenue, with corresponding line markings and advisory signage indicating an

approaching pedestrian crossing. Bus zone and no stopping areas are positioned in front of the

school on both sides of the road.

The curves on Explorers road in this segment make it challenging to see oncoming vehicles (blind

curve). In terms of line markings there are broken single centrelines, double barrier lines, and

audible lines – raised pavement markers in yellow and edge lines. This section includes guardrail

measuring 130 metres.

In the upgraded area, a concrete centre median strip in the curved area of Explorers Rd. Excessive

signage near the shared path and curves (town entry sign, bike to school, ducks, slow down). Shared

cycle path is 2.2m from signage. There are duplicated of slow-down signs.

On the curve adjacent to the Rugby sports fields there is another segment of guardrail measuring

130 metres.

Photo 1: Explorers Rd

The pedestrian refuge located next to the sports ground does not follow current standards but

would have met standards at the time of installation. The hoop is missing and line markings are

faded and in poor condition. The stop sign at Achievement Rd and Explorers Rd has been installed in

the correct location.

Review

• The observed road condition would be considered good.

• During non – peak sports periods, formal parking areas near tennis courts and next to

netball courts and sports field parking, occupancy was low.


• During peak sport season, formal parking areas (including the tennis court parking and the

larger sealed carpark) were at 100% capacity by 9:10am. Vehicles were observed to be

parking on grass and in unmarked spaces in these areas.

Photo 2: Carpark adjacent to netball courts Saturday 9am.

Photo 3: Explorers Rd near Tennis Courts and Lapstone Pre School

Photo 4: Explorers Rd mid-morning near netball courts

• Vehicles were parked in the unmarked area near clubhouse.

• Angled parking in the unsealed and unmarked area opposite the netball courts was at

capacity up to the bus stop near the intersection of Governors Drive and Explorers Road.

Vehicles were observed to be parking into the bus zones as morning progressed.


Photo 5: Explorers Rd, Darkes common near pedestrian refuge

• Overflow of parking by vehicles into the intersection of Explorers Road and Governors Drive.

Parking begins to impact on both sides of Governors Drive and numerous U-turns in the

middle of the Governors Drive/Explorers Road intersection were observed.

• The area reaches beyond parking capacity by mid-morning , illegal parking observed in the

area across from the sports clubhouse on west side of Explorers Rd, six cars are parked in

the No Stopping zone.

Photo 6: Explorers Rd Pre-school and Tennis Courts

• Parking in front of the Pre-School (has some No Stopping signage) and towards the shared

path and signage on curve of Explorers Road. Illegal parking adjacent to shared path with

some cars blocking path.


Photo 7: Explorers Rd, across from Sports ground

• Parking occurring in the Darkes Common Area (Lapstone Gully).

Photos 8 & 9: Southern end of Explorers Rd.

• In terms of traffic flow, constant turnover was observed throughout the morning with cars

changing over as sports games end and start. There was a constant flow of vehicles seeking


parking. Parking overflow /spill into the residential south end of Explorers Drive and

Governors Drive was also observed.

• An increase during peak sports period of pedestrians crossing the road at different points on

Explorers Road.

• In terms of the relationship with the traffic data surveys undertaken on Explorers Road, the

peak volumes are 9am on a weekday may reflect school and pre-school drop off times. The

highest volume (645) was recorded on a Thursday evening at 6pm which may reflect sports

training and commuter travel.

• Saturday 19th

of June shows a spread of higher volumes from 9am – 6pm which may reflect

the access and usage of the sports grounds.

• The Blackspot upgrades and sealed carpark areas have improved the area, however during

peak sports season the entire area reaches parking capacity by 9am Saturday. By mid-

morning a range of illegal parking was witnessed, including vehicles impinging on bus zones,

parked in unmarked areas and in formal no-stopping areas as well as into intersections.

• Traffic surveys also demonstrate that there is an increased traffic flow during sports training

periods on some weekday evenings.

Recommended Actions

This segment is an area of concern regarding parking and traffic flow. There is turnover throughout

the morning which increases the traffic flow and volumes. Consideration should be given to:

• Rationalisation of signage on curve in upgraded area of Explorers Rd. The signage is cluttered

and is distracting to road users.

• Weekend timed parking to increase turnover in on-road parking in sports precinct.

• Further formalisation of parking areas in the sports precinct on Explorers Road, such as

marked parking bays on netball courts side and construction/formalisation of parking

opposite to the netball courts.

• No stopping zone restrictions around intersection of Governors Drive and Explorers Road to

maintain sight distances.

• Pedestrian refuge requires the installation of a hoop and could be upgraded to meet

Australian Standards if renewal funding became available.

• High level need for enforcement on peak times and sports days when multiple sports are

being played. This is subject to Council Ranger resources and availability.

• Improving line marking where faded.

• Stop sign at intersection of Achievement Rd and Explorers Rd needs installation corrected

and to be set back 10 metres.

• Physical barriers to stop parking in Darkes Common area/ Lapstone Gully area.

• Installation of an additional Kiss and Ride area on-street (5 minutes drop off zone). See photo

10.


Photo 10: Possible location for kiss and ride

Segment 3 Explorers Rd from Governors Drive to Lapstone Station including Dawes Place

Background

Usage in this segment is primarily residential, commuter orientated it is also part of a bus route.

From correspondence received from the CDC bus company, it is the road geometry of Darwin Drive

which presents the main challenge when two buses are coming from opposing ends and there are

parked cars to manoeuvre around.

Road Length in this segment is 810m. In terms of road width there are the following variations; from

Governors Drive to Evans Parade, the road pavement is 8m, from Evans Parade to Caley Crescent the

width is 7 metres, from Caley Crescent to Hume Rd the width is 6metres. From Hume Rd to Dawes

Place the width is 12 metres.

Road Condition data in terms of the condition of the road pavement, the overall condition index

which considers surface and pavement or structural distresses of this segment is considered

excellent. From Hume Rd to Dawes Place there is some line cracking and in some specific areas the

roughness indicators would be considered fair/poor (BMCC, Asset Data). Overall from a traffic

perspective the segment functions well with no impact from these conditions.

Since 1998, there has been 3 tow away crashes and 1 injury crash reported. None of these crashes

occurred in the last five years from 2016. One of the towaways was a head on crash with distraction

as a factor, two of the towaway crashes were at the same point in the road geometry and were off

road crashes at a bend with speed being a factor.


Inspection Monday 19th

of February 2:30pm (EK & SM)

The road features upright kerb with the exception of a portion of the southern side of the road

pavement which is adjacent to bushland (Explorers Reserve). The residential side of the road has

kerb and guttering. The road design has sharp curves and narrows with the road geometry being

almost at a 90 degree angle in some locations.


A Give Way sign and double barrier centrelines (approximately 15 metres length) are present at the

beginning of the road segment at the Explorers Road, Governors Drive intersection, this area is wide.

No curve advisory signage is present on first sharp bend of Explorers Road where road begins to

narrow. There is black and white chevron signage near 195 Explorers Road where road is a sharp

almost 90 degree turn. A 50 zone speed sign is located opposite 173 Explorers Road.

This segment is part of bus route, there is a bus zone located near Lapstone station which is not DDA

compliant due to a lack of access ramp, tactile ground surface indicators and narrow footpath

widths. Bus zone signage is also positioned too low at Dawes Place near train station and this

requires replacement.

Review

• As vehicles manoeuvre around corners the road geometry is almost at right angles.

• Line marking and delineation are generally appropriate for this segment.

• Parking is adequate and there are no timed restrictions in the commuter car park area.

• During peak sports period it was observed that cars parked in close proximity to the

intersection of Explorers Road and Governors Drive. This creates a line of sight issue with the

intersection.

Recommended Actions

The parking and traffic flow issues in this section are not of major concern however increase road

safety improvements could be achieved with the following:

• Install sharp bend advisory sign before first sharp bend at the beginning of segment.

• Consideration to be given to adding bus zone near train station to Council programs to

ensure DDA compliance. Bus zone signage also to be upgraded.

• Installation of No Stopping signs at the intersection of Explorers Road and Governors Drive.

Segment 4 Governors Drive from Byrne St to Explorers Road

Background

This segment is residential, it is a sign posted 50 kph zone and it is a no through road. It contains a

bus route.

The Crash Data in this segment was reported as 2 injury crashes and 5 tow away crashes. Within the

Explorers Road / Governors Drive intersection, 5 cross-traffic crashes have occurred (1 injury and 4

tow away crashes). One tow away crash was reported in this segment in the last 5 years.

Road Length in this segment is 430m. The road width is consistent in this segment; Byrne to

Explorers Road is 8.5metres. From Council’s road pavement condition data the road pavement in

this segment is considered good to excellent

Current Traffic Conditions and Challenges:

Inspection conducted Monday 3:30pm 19/2/2018 (EK, SM)


Traffic devices and infrastructure in this segment include; a vertical kerb design on both sides of the

road and 50 kmh zone speed signage. Double barrier lines feature in the entire segment to Byrnes

Road. Governors Drive is a no through road after Byrnes Street.

Review

• Road pavement is observed as good.

• The double barrier centrelines are faded in parts. Straight-road and a good line of vision

from Byrne Street.

• Some parking overflow occurs during peak sports times at the intersection of Explorers

Road/Governors Drive is impacted by parking into the intersection.

• Residents are parking on both sides of the road in this segment. Buses and other vehicles

travel in the middle of the road and over the double centre lines.

Photo 11: Vehicles travelling across double lines in segment 4

Recommended Actions

For the most part, this segment fits residential usage.

• As noted vehicles are parked on both sides of the road in parts of this segment. Given the

residential nature of this segment, low speed and low volumes in this segment. The double

barrier centrelines are not required and could be removed.

• Signage restricting parking in Explorers Road / Governors Drive intersection to counteract

illegal parking in this location on peak sport days and improve line of site issues.

Segment 5 Governors Drive from Explorers Road to Hume Road

Background

This is a key segment of concern, residents have expressed concerns regarding road safety issues

and speeding behaviours in this location.

Road usage is primarily residential but Governors Drive also serves as a collector road with vehicles

using this as an alternative route to the Great Western Highway.


The road width from Explorers Road to Hume Road is generally 8.5 metres in width (BMCC, Assets

Data). From Council’s road pavement condition data the road pavement in this segment is

considered good to excellent. The road length in this segment is 370 metres.

Crash Data for this segment does not include the Governors Drive/Explorers Road intersection which

was reported on in segment 4. There were 6 tow away crashes along this section of Governors Drive.

Two of these crashes were head on crashes. A towaway head-on crash occurred on Governors Drive

near Caley Crescent with wet road surface conditions. A second head-on towaway crash occurred

near the first main curve in wet conditions. The latest recorded off road crash off this bend with

speed and fatigue being factors. The remaining two crashes in this segment were off road crashes

with speed being a factor in one of these. It is important to also consider the changes to self-

reporting of crash data after 2014. It is possible that there may be some unrecorded towaway crash

data looking at the history of this segment.

Date 1-7 May 2016

Location 12a Governors Drive

Average Speed

Northbound

48.1 kph (weekday avg)

47.4 kph (total avg)

85th

percentile

Northbound

54kph

Average Speed

Southbound

47.6 kph (weekday average)

47.4 kph (total average)

85th percentile

Southbound

54 kph

Average speed

Both directions

47.4kph

85th percentile

Both directions

54kph

AM Peak weekday

(vehicle volume)

Both directions

8 - 9am

Range (205-245)

Average = 228

PM Peak weekday

(vehicle volumes)

Both directions

5 - 6pm

Range ( 176-209)

Average = 191

AM Peak weekend

(vehicle volume)

Both directions

10 - 11am

Saturday (256)

Sunday ( 214)

PM Peak weekend

(vehicle volume)

Both directions

12 - 1pm

Saturday (291 )

Sunday ( 195)

Class 1 vehicles

(light vehicles- 2 axles)

96.9%

(2116 total p/week)

Table 2: Summary of traffic survey data May 2016

A traffic survey was conducted in May 2016, for the Slow Down in My Street road safety project; this

is a 7 day representation of the data prior to behavioural interventions in this project.


The location of the traffic survey was at the top of a slope and data was collected at 12a Governors

Drive (near Evans Parade). Data results from this location show the average speed was 47.4kph and

the 85th

percentile was 54kph and 96.9% of traffic was in the 2-axle light vehicle category (cars, light

vans, bicycles and motorcycles).


• Inspection conducted Saturday 1:30pm 17/2/2018 (EK, SM)

• Inspection conducted Monday 3:50pm 19/2/2018 (EK, SM)

There is upright kerb but here no existing road shoulder in this segment. This segment has

undulating topography and a number of variations in road geometry such as straight, sharp curve

and slopes and a crest. Signage includes two speed signs, dip sign, hazard sign and signage depicting

curves. Some parts of the double centreline marking have faded.

Police have also provided advice that this segment is difficult to monitor and enforce for speed

compliance due to restraints of the road and residential nature. Feedback from Police has also noted

support for road centreline remarking and treatments to discourage speeding and crossing of the

centrelines.

It is noted that for this type of road and the traffic functions of this segment, lane widths are

recommended at 3 metres and 2.5 metres is required for parking.

Review

• Vehicles were observed travelling across the centre lines of the road.

• There are no formalised parking restrictions in this segment.

• Vehicles observed to be parking on nature strip/verge.

• Some parking also in close proximity to the corner, which is affecting site distance of vehicles

proceeding down the road.

• Some parking was observed adjacent to kerb near Hume Road. In terms of sight distance, for

vehicles exiting Hume Road, vehicles parked on Governors present a visual obstruction and

pose some risk.

• The traffic survey data was conducted at the top of a hill and shows that the average is

47.4kph but the 85th

percentile is 54kph.

• Given the 8.5 metre width of the road, allowing parking on both sides is not ideal and

requires review.

Photo 12: Governors Drive to Evans Parade


Photo 13: Verge parking Governors Drive

Photo 14: Vehicles travelling across centrelines

Recommended Actions

Given the site distance issues, traffic volumes, and the usage of this segment allowing parking on

both sides is not an appropriate outcome.

• Retain double-line marking on the dip and the crests/curve for safety.

• Consider parking restrictions to improve sight distances for vehicles entering Governors

Drive from Hume Road.

• Investigate realignment of centreline, installation of edgelines and no parking restrictions on

one side as required.

• Consider centreline treatments to discourage excessive speed and crossing of centrelines.

Segment 6 - Governors Drive Hume to Tunnel Gully Bridge

Background

This is a key segment of concern in regards to traffic flow and parking on Governors Drive. There has

been a history of speeding, driver behaviour and road safety concerns raised by residents to Council,


residents to Local Representatives and Police. Correspondence has been received from residents

observing speeding behaviour and raising issues regarding sight distance. Police have undertaken

enforcement in the area and have also corresponded with Council requesting consideration of

repainting centrelines and or installing rumble strips and raised concrete median strips to deter this

behaviour. They have also commented that due to the nature of the layout of this area it is difficult

to conduct ongoing enforcement.

In terms of data collection, a number of traffic count surveys have been conducted in this segment.

Representative data comparing a 7 day interval between the sites and time periods can be seen in

the table below:

Date May 2016 February 2017 July 2018

Location 25 Governors Drive 40 Governors Drive 44 Governors Drive

Average Speed

Northbound

48.2kph (weekday avg)

47.7kph (total avg)

52 kph (weekday avg)

52.1 kph (total avg)

-

85th

percentile

Northbound

54kph 60 kph -

Average Speed

Southbound

43.2 kph (weekday

average)

43.1 kph (total

average)

48.4 kph

(weekday & total avg)

-

85th percentile

Southbound

49 kph 56kph -

Average speed

Both directions

45.8kph

50.5kph 50.1kph

85th

percentile

Both directions

52kph 59kph 58.9kph

AM Peak weekday

(vehicle volume)

Both directions

8 - 9am

Range (223 - 260).

Average = 242

8 -9am

Range (255-290)

Average = 269

8 - 9am

Range (237-267)

PM Peak weekday

(vehicle volumes)

Both directions

5-6pm

Range (136-238)

Average = 216

4-5pm

Range (180-424)

Average (233)

5-6pm

Range (192-226)

Average (189)

AM Peak weekend

(vehicle volume)

Both directions

10-11am

Saturday ( 278)

Sunday (178)

10-11am

Saturday (226)

11am-12pm

Sunday (187)

11-12am

Saturday (241)

11am-12pm

Sunday (193)

PM Peak weekend

(vehicle volume)

Both directions

12-1pm

Saturday (303)

Sunday (219)

12-1pm

Saturday (259)

1-2pm

Sunday (180)

12-1pm

Saturday (215)

1-2pm

Sunday (209)

Table 3: Comparison of speed count data Governors Drive

From the traffic survey data it can be noted that the average speeds for the 40 and 44 Governors

Drive locations are 50.5kph and 50.1kph respectively. From the available data the 85th

percentile in

both directions is 59kph and this is considered high. The northbound data gathered at 40 Governors

Drive shows higher average speeds at 52kmh and the 85th

percentile sits at 60kmph, which again is

high for a residential road environment.


The pattern of higher recorded volumes at peak times such as 9am and late afternoon. If we look at

the maximum peak hour volumes recorded for this segment in relation to a road classification as a

residential road they would be considered to sit between the environmental goal of 200 vehicles per

hour and a maximum of 300 per hour. However, Governors Drive is also a collector road and vehicle

volumes do sit below the desirable environmental maximum of 300 and one of a maximum of 500

per hour volume. Saturday data reflect higher weekend volumes but it still fits into acceptable

volumes.

The road length in this segment is 820m. The road width has some variations, Hume Road to Darwin

Drive width is 6.3 metres. Darwin Drive to Darwin Drive 8.5m Darwin Drive to Great Western

Highway is 8m (Data, BMCC Asset register).

In terms of the condition of the road pavement, the overall condition index which considers surface

and pavement or structural distresses of this segment is considered good to excellent. In terms of

roughness standards (IRI) of the road pavement specifically on Governors Drive from Hume Road to

Darwin Drive is considered fair.

Reported crash data since 1996 notes that there have been ten towaway crashes and four injury

crashes in this segment. Two of these towaways have occurred in the last five years of crash data.

Speed was a factor in three of the injury crashes and eight of the towaways. The two sharp corners

in this northern end of this segment of Governors Drive have been the location of a portion of these

crashes. There has been 4 head- on crashes in this northern vicinity of Governors Drive and Darwin

Drive on approach to Tunnel Gully Bridge. In some instances speed and wet conditions have been

contributing factors. These same factors have contributed to another head which occurred on

Governors Drive on the southern end of the segment in the vicinity of the Hume Road intersection.


Inspection conducted 9:40am Thursday 15/2/2018 (EK & SM)

This segment of Governors Drive has an undulating topography and it also contains a crest and two

sharp curves before Tunnel Gully Bridge. This area is part of a bus route and is a collector road and

alternative thoroughfare to the GWH via Tully Bridge. From Hume Road to Darwin Drive the road

narrows and there is a culvert.

Review

This has been an area of concern for traffic flow and parking conditions. Advisory signs including;

concealed driveway ahead, sign on bend, dip sign.

• Speed zone sign is located across from Darwin Drive.

• Segment contains upright kerb but no road shoulder or edge markings or edge lines.

• Faded double centrelines in this segment.

• Faded line markings at intersection of Hume and Darwin.

• Small section of footpath at Culvert near Hume Road. Road is narrow in this location.

Pedestrian fencing for safety on eastern side of the road, for approximately 20 metres.


Guardrail on the eastern side of the Governors Drive from Hume Drive to Darwin Drive is

76m in Length

• Currently there are no formal parking restrictions in this location.

• Some parking observed too close to intersections (within 10 metres).

• Parking on Governors Drive but near/opposite to intersection of Darwin Drive there is

obstruction of vision and difficult to pass.

• Double centrelines make it difficult to park and vehicles weave around parked cars.

• Given the 6.3 to 8.5 metre width of the road, allowing parking on both sides is not ideal and

requires review.

• Speeding on bend at this culvert results in drivers crossing double centrelines. Majority of

drivers were observed to be crossing the centrelines at the culvert area near the guardrail

and pedestrian fencing point.

• The topography of this segment makes it difficult for ongoing speed compliance

enforcement.

• Difficult for vehicles emerging from Darwin Drive to have a clear line of site (near 40

Governors Drive).

• No curve advisory sign or Keep Left sign towards the end of Governors Drive heading north.

• Guardrail approaching Tunnel Gully Bridge (from 64 Governors Drive to Tully Gully Bridge is

110m in length).

• The history of head on crashes indicates that the installation of curve advisory sign or Keep

Left sign towards the end of Governors Drive heading north would be advisable.

• Traffic surveys indicate peak volumes occurring during mid-morning on weekends especially

Saturdays also reflect commuter movements at 8am and 5pm Average speeds in both

directions are close to the speed limit but the 85th

percentile shows speeds approaching

60kmph indicating speeding behaviour (See Table 2 for further details).

Photo 15 & 16: Culvert area of Governors Drive

Recommended Actions

Given the speeds and traffic volumes in this segment, 2.5 metres for parking and 3 metres lane

width are required. Due to the road conditions there is a need to improve delineation for vehicles

and encourage vehicles travelling through the area to exercise caution in regards to speed and drive

to the conditions:


• Consider parking restrictions on the bends and crest on Governors Drive.

• Investigate realignment of centreline, installation of edgelines and no parking restrictions on

one side as required.

• Consider parking restrictions at intersections to improve sight distances, particularly those

exiting Darwin Drive.

• Re-marking of intersections as needed as per Australian standards. Consider signage to

encourage vehicles to stop appropriately (Give Way/Stop signs as appropriate).

• Investigate suitable lane divider and lane marking devices in culvert area of Governors Drive.

• Consider centreline treatments to discourage excessive speed and crossing of centrelines.

Conclusion

From the traffic review undertaken it has been established that the key areas of concern are

Segments 2, 5, and 6. Whilst there are some improvements levels warranted in Segments 1, 3 and 4,

these areas are generally functioning adequately.

Traffic, during peak times such as sporting activity and commuter periods show a higher traffic flow

in the Explorers Road area. It is recommended that improvements in Segment 2 be made to

formalise car parking areas and signage restrictions in key areas to encourage changes in parking

behaviour. The traffic flow and parking is adequate at non-peak times.

It should be noted that parking enforcement is dependent upon availability and resourcing of

Council Rangers during these peak periods and is subject to other priority sites, particularly high

profile tourist sites, throughout the local government area. It is our understanding that given current

Ranger resourcing it would be difficult to increase the monitoring and enforcement of parking in

Explorers Road.

Governors Drive is also a key area concern, on peak times there is an increase in parking at the

Explorers Road and Governors Drive intersection. Traffic Survey Data gathered showed speeding

behaviour on Governors Drive. Consideration will needed to be given to implementing

improvements to changes to line marking, signage and parking to improve delineation, parking and

traffic flow to improve road safety in Segments 5 and 6.


Appendix 1

Definitions

Percentile: Speed at or below which the nominated percentage (e.g. 15, 50, 85) of vehicles are

observed to travel under free flow conditions. (Austroads Glossary of Terms (2015 Edition)

The 85th percentile of speed: The speed at or below which 85% of all vehicles are observed to travel

under free-flowing conditions past a nominated point (AS1742.4)

Surface Condition Index (SCI): Index to rate only distresses on the surface of the pavement (seals

and Asphalt Concrete).

Pavement Condition Index (PCI): general Index which considers Pavement distresses or structural

distresses (including other layers of pavement: base, sub-base).

Overall Condition Index (OCI): Index which considers all kind of distresses: Surface distresses (seals

and Asphalt Concrete), including failures, which affects the quality of riding, comfort: roughness and

rutting) and Pavement distresses or structural distresses (including other layers of pavement: base,

sub-base).

Roughness Levels standard (IRI) NAASRA

v good 0 2.5 0<65

good 2.5 4.6 65><120

fair 4.6 5.9 120><160

poor 5.9 7 160<>185

v poor >7 185+

Using the above conversion scales

Table 4: Roughness Levels Standard (IRI Levels) (BMCC pavement data, Ascetic software)

Road Class Road Type Maximum

speed

(KM/hr)

Maximum peak hour volume

(ve/hr)

Local Access way 25 100

Street 200 environmental goal

300 Maximum

Collector Street 50 300 environmental goal

500 maximum

Table 5: Environmental capacity performance standards on residential streets

Table reproduced from RTA Guide to Traffic Generating Developments Version 2.2- October 2001

(4-9)


Attachment 1

Inspection Template

Inspection segment /streets

Date

Time

Road pavement/road design/flow

1. Describe Topography / geography in segment

� Straight

� Curve

� Slope

� Vertical

� Crest

� Other……….

� Lane width……………………………………………

2. a. Existing infrastructure and traffic devices in segment

� T-intersection

� Traffic calming type:

………………………………………..

� Line marking

� Kerb

� Existing footpath

� Road shoulder

� Signage type……………………….

� State of road surface

………………………………………………..

b. Existing Asset Data checked:

� Correct � Needs updating

3. Describe type of road usage for this segment.

� Local road

� State road

� Collector road

� Alternative entry to villages

� Entry to GWH

�Other:_______________________

4. Does the segment generally cater for the size of vehicle likely to use it?

� Yes � No

Comments:


5. Are there any obvious visual obstructions for vehicles?

6 a. Describe what line markings are provided in this segment. Do they give adequate

guidance for vehicles?

� S1 Centreline

� BB Centreline

� Edge line

� Audible lines

� Dragon’s teeth

6 b. Are line-markings and delineation appropriate for this segment? Is the line making and

delineation appropriate for the function of the road and consistent along this segment

/route?

� Yes � No

Comments:

7 Describe Traffic flow / any additional factors?

8 Does the observed volume impact on traffic conditions?

9 Any additional observations /comments?

10 Could any of the improvements be made to road /traffic flow?

Parking

1. Summarise the usage of this segment (tick /write as many as needed)

� Sports ground

� Residential area

� Commuter

� School / pre-school

�Other:

26 Blue Mountains City Council Lapstone Traffic Review August 2018

Any Comments:

2. What are the formal parking arrangements / restrictions in this segment?

3. Is the signage adequate for parking arrangements?

4. % parking occupancy of segment

5. Illegal parking or inappropriate use

6. Is the sight distance at intersections in this segment, unaffected by parked vehicles?

7. Describe any additional observed parking behaviour not already described?

8. Could any parking improvements be made in this segment?

Date post:	16-Oct-2021
Category:	Documents
Upload:	others
View:	1 times
Download:	0 times

Governors Drive and Explorers Road Lapstone Traffic Review

Documents