The Elouera and Mort Streets intersection has reopened following the completion of major works as part of our recent upgrades in Braddon. These upgrades to the intersection complement the pedestrian improvements completed on Lonsdale Street earlier this year.
Braddon has evolved over the past decade from being a light industrial area into one of Canberra’s most diverse suburbs. These upgrades are assisting the area become a safer and more attractive place for both residents and visitors.
The existing roundabout at the intersection of Elouera and Mort Streets has been replaced with a new raised intersection which prioritises pedestrian safety and accessibility. Completed upgrades included four designated pedestrian crossings – one at each side of the intersection, new paving, better lighting, and garden beds.
New pedestrian crossings have improved the connection between Braddon’s businesses, the Elouera Street light rail stop, and the City Centre. The new raised intersection has calmed traffic and wider verges have reduced crossing distances.
“Through the initial consultation for upgrades on Lonsdale Street, the community made it clear the priorities were improved pedestrian access, traffic calming, and better connections to the Elouera Street light rail stop,” the City Renewal Authority’s Chief Executive Officer Craig Gillman said.
“We’ve taken this feedback on board to deliver an upgrade which improves access for residents and makes it easier for visitors to access Braddon’s renowned retail outlets and hospitality venues.
Before and after comparison of the Elouera and Mort Streets intersection.
Did you know that over 260,000 journeys started or ended at the Elouera Street light rail stop last year? On average, that’s just under 800 journeys per day, and over 22,000 journeys each month.
With completed improvements at the Elouera and Mort Streets intersection, many of these commuters and visitors will enjoy a safer, more convenient connection between the light rail and Braddon businesses.
Nexus Human Services is a disability employment service provider that has been operating in Braddon for more than 30 years. CEO of Nexus Human Services Lisa McPherson said clients and staff travelling to and from their office on Lonsdale Street are already benefitting from better connections and improved accessibility.
"The recent upgrades have made it much more convenient for people to visit our office,” Ms McPherson said.
"Braddon is a busy area so ensuring pedestrian safety and accessibility is important, particularly for those with mobility challenges or visual impairments.
"Traffic calming, raised crossings, and enhanced tactile indicators have made the area much more accessible. These improvements create clear pathways so everyone can move around the area safely and independently."
The upgrades in Braddon have also converted more than 1,100 square metres of hard, hot surfaces like asphalt and concrete into greenspace. That’s the equivalent of 4 tennis courts that are now home to around 5,000 plants and trees.
The low garden beds installed around the crossings and the new intersection make it easier for motorists to see pedestrians approaching each crossing. This is an import safety feature for everyone but especially children, wheelchair users and parents with prams.
Mid-block crossing on Lonsdale Street outside the Nexus Human Services office.
Braddon is renowned for its established venues and continues to welcome new offerings. It is home to a mix of residential apartments, innovative businesses, and popular restaurants and bars which provides a bustling hub of activity.
Haig Park hosts the Haig Park Village Markets each Sunday and our themed PAWS Party once a month. For three nights in early January the streets of Braddon welcome crowds of cars and people for the free Summernats Fringe Festival, which contributes to over $1 million for Braddon businesses.
Just one of the great café offerings in Braddon.
We’re now in the initial stages of planning and consultation for upgrades on Cooyong Street between Northbourne Avenue and Donaldson Street. In late 2024, we will share concept designs to improve connectivity across Cooyong Street between Civic and Braddon.
Transport Canberra and City Services has also started construction on stage 1A of the Garden City cycleway. The new cycleway will provide a safe cycle route connecting Watson, Downer, Hackett, Dickson, Ainslie, and Braddon with the City Centre.
While major works are complete and the intersection has reopened, minor works in Braddon will continue over the coming months.
To learn more about the upgrades in Braddon, visit the project page.
Crowds of people at the Haig Park Village Markets.
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.
