New safe bike lanes in Somerville Street were installed as part of a strategy to create safe riding network through Melbourne’s Inner West.
Client problems
The client needed safe, durable, sustainable and skid resistant bikes lanes to clearly delineate the bike lanes from the adjacent vehicle lanes which are dangerous, busy and used by heavy trucks and commercial vehicles.
Busy and dangerous road conditions compound these issues. High traffic volumes increase the likelihood of accidents. Congestion, impatient driving behaviors, and reduced visibility during peak hours exacerbate the risks. Such conditions make it difficult for bike riders to navigate safely and for drivers to respond swiftly to unexpected situations, escalating the potential for serious crashes and injuries.
The presence of heavy vehicle traffic on Somerville Road in Yarraville also presents significant challenges. The constant flow of large trucks and commercial vehicles accelerates road wear and tear, necessitating more frequent maintenance. These vehicles’ size and weight also create hazards, particularly for bike riders and pedestrians.
Clearly delineating bike lanes from vehicle lanes on Somerville Road was needed to enhance safety and reduce conflicts between the different types of road users.
Our solution
Working closely on their needs and the project design with Council Staff, OmniGrip Direct suggested the use of OmniGrip’s Green Coloured Surface Treatment (OmniGrip CST) because it offered durable and highly visible separation so that car and truck drivers would clearly see the separate bike lane and be reminded to look for riders when crossing lanes.
Carefully installing 780m2 these well-marked bike lanes provided a dedicated space for cyclists, improving their visibility to drivers and fostering safer, more predictable interactions. This delineation is essential for promoting cycling as a viable and safe transportation mode in the area, safeguarding the well-being of all road users.
Detailed results and impact
OmniGrip CST is compliant with road agency specifications, including the stringent requirements set by VicRoads Specification 431. This compliance ensures that the product meets high standards for durability, safety, and performance. By adhering to these specifications, OmniGrip CST provides a reliable and trusted solution for road marking and surfacing needs, guaranteeing that it performs effectively under various traffic and weather conditions.
Utilising 75% – 3mm Australian crushed Recycled Glass, OmniGrip CST contributes to environmental sustainability by diverting glass from landfill. This innovative approach not only reduces waste but also supports the local recycling industry. By incorporating recycled materials,
OmniGrip CST aligns with circular economy principles, promoting resource efficiency and reducing the environmental footprint of road construction and maintenance projects.
OmniGrip CST is designed to be skid-resistant for rider and driver safety, as well as slip-resistant for rider and pedestrian safety. Its superior traction properties enhance road safety by providing reliable grip in wet and dry conditions, reducing the risk of crashes.
Additionally, OmniGrip CST outlasts and outperforms traditional paint-based products, offering a long-lasting solution that maintains its effectiveness over time. This longevity translates to lower maintenance costs and fewer disruptions for road users, making it a cost-effective choice for road safety and infrastructure projects.
Benefits for the community
- Enhanced Safety: The installation of OmniGrip CST clearly delineates bike lanes from vehicle lanes, significantly reducing conflicts between cyclists and heavy vehicle traffic. This separation promotes safer, more predictable interactions, reducing the risk of crashes and injuries for all road users.
- Sustainability: Using Australian recycled glass diverts waste from landfills and supports the local recycling industry. This environmentally friendly approach aligns with circular economy principles, promoting resource efficiency and reducing the project’s environmental footprint.
- Community Well-being: By providing safer, dedicated bike lanes, OmniGrip CST encourages cycling as a viable and safe transportation mode. This promotes healthier lifestyles, reduces traffic congestion, and contributes to a more sustainable urban environment, enhancing the overall quality of life for the Yarraville and wider communities.
- Improved Road Durability: OmniGrip CST’s skid-resistant and slip-resistant properties provide superior traction, enhancing safety in wet and dry conditions. Its long-lasting performance outperforms traditional paint-based products, resulting in fewer maintenance requirements and lower costs, ensuring reliable, durable road markings.
“Many of my neighbours and me ride our bikes along Somerville Road. We’ve had lots of near misses between trucks, cars and bikes. Since the green lanes were added, cars, trucks and bike riders are behaving a lot better. It feels so much safer than before.”
– Kim, 32 – Somerville Road resident
Results at a glance
- Compliant with stringent road agency specifications
- 5,460 kg Australian crushed recycled-glass diverted from landfill (equivalent of 27,000 beer bottles)
- Skid-resistant for rider & driver safety
- Slip-resistant for rider & pedestrian safety
- Outlasts and outperforms paint-based products!
Images thanks to Parks Victoria.
