Residents and local leaders in Canberra's Gungahlin region are raising urgent concerns over the safety of the Anthony Rolfe Avenue intersection, citing a series of near-misses and collisions that have left the community demanding immediate action.
Growing Safety Fears
Locals report that the intersection, a key thoroughfare in the growing suburb, has become increasingly hazardous due to high traffic volumes and poor visibility. Recent incidents have heightened fears, with many calling for traffic lights or roundabouts to replace the current give-way system.
One resident, who asked not to be named, described a recent close call: "I saw two cars almost collide head-on. It’s only a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt."
Community and Political Response
Local leaders, including Gungahlin Community Council representatives, have been lobbying the ACT government for upgrades. They argue that the intersection was designed for lower traffic volumes and has not kept pace with the area's rapid development.
"We’ve been raising this for years, but nothing has changed," said a council spokesperson. "The government needs to prioritize safety over cost."
ACT government officials have acknowledged the concerns, stating that a traffic study is underway to assess the intersection's performance and identify potential solutions. However, residents remain skeptical, fearing further delays.
Data on Accidents
According to ACT Policing, the intersection has recorded multiple crashes over the past two years, with several resulting in injuries. While no fatalities have occurred, the trend is alarming.
Transport for Canberra has confirmed that the intersection is on a list of sites being reviewed for safety upgrades, but no timeline for works has been announced.
Meanwhile, locals continue to urge caution, with some avoiding the intersection altogether during peak hours. The community is calling for a roundabout or traffic signals as the most effective solution to reduce risks.
The situation highlights broader infrastructure challenges in Gungahlin, one of Canberra's fastest-growing regions, where transport networks are struggling to keep up with population growth.
