The recent decision by Transport for NSW to reduce the speed limit on Jamberoo Road to 60 km/h has stirred up quite the debate in our community. Concerns about safety, wildlife, fines, and inconvenience have all been voiced, particularly as MP Gareth Ward has launched a petition to reverse the decision, citing doubts about the effectiveness of the speed reduction. While we all want safer roads, finding the right balance between efficient commuting and protecting lives is no easy task.

What’s clear, however, is that road safety isn’t just about speed limits—it’s also about how we design and manage our roads. In fact, across the world, countries are adopting innovative, eye-catching measures to encourage safer driving and protect pedestrians. Here’s a look at some of the most fascinating traffic calming devices from around the globe, and how they could complement the speed limit reduction debate here in Australia.

1. 3D Pedestrian Crossings (Iceland)

Perhaps one of the most visually striking ideas comes from Iceland, where pedestrian crossings are painted in a way that makes them appear three-dimensional. This optical illusion slows down drivers who instinctively reduce their speed, thinking the crosswalk blocks are hovering above the road. While Australia hasn’t yet adopted this eye-catching solution, it could be a fun and effective way to improve safety in high-risk areas, especially in tourist-heavy zones where drivers might not be as familiar with the roads.

Iceland 3D pedestrian crossings. Photo Credit Maria Pellini

2. Illuminated Crosswalks (South Korea)

South Korea has taken pedestrian safety to the next level by installing illuminated crosswalks. These crossings light up at night, making pedestrians far more visible to drivers. Some even feature motion sensors that detect people approaching, activating flashing lights to warn drivers to slow down. 

3. Speed Bump Crosswalks (Spain)

In Spain, pedestrian crossings are sometimes raised, effectively turning them into speed bumps. Drivers must slow down to navigate these crossings, while pedestrians benefit from the added visibility. In Australia, we have speed bumps and road humps as common traffic calming devices but integrating them into pedestrian crossings in busy areas like Jamberoo and Gerringong Villages could enhance safety without causing major delays for drivers.

4. Musical Roads (Japan)

Japan has developed a unique way to encourage safe driving: roads that ‘sing’ when cars travel at the correct speed. Known as ‘melody roads,’ grooves in the road surface produce musical notes when driven over at a specific speed, providing an enjoyable incentive for drivers to stay within the limit. While this might seem whimsical, it’s an intriguing example of how creativity can be used to influence driver behaviour—perhaps something similar could be trialled on stretches of road known for speeding issues in Australia.

5. Colourful Crosswalks (Mexico)

In Mexico, some crosswalks have been transformed into vibrant works of art. These colourful, patterned crosswalks not only make roads more attractive but also serve as a visual reminder to slow down. This creative approach to traffic calming could add charm to areas like Jamberoo, Gerringong and Kiama, offering both residents and tourists a safer and more engaging experience on the roads.

Current Measures in Australia

Australia already employs a number of traffic calming measures, such as speed bumps, roundabouts, chicanes, and rumble strips, all designed to control speed and improve safety. These devices are particularly effective in school zones and residential areas where pedestrian activity is high.

In Kiama, we have implemented traditional traffic calming devices like roundabouts and pedestrian refuges, but as seen in the examples above, we could benefit from even more innovative measures. The current reduction in speed limits on Jamberoo Road is an important step in improving safety, but it doesn’t have to be the only one. A holistic approach, incorporating better signage, creative road designs, and enhanced pedestrian visibility, would go a long way in making our roads safer for everyone.

Looking Forward

The pushback against the speed limit reduction on Jamberoo Road highlights a broader issue: change can be difficult, and not everyone will immediately see the benefit. But as we’ve seen from these global examples, innovative, engaging, and even fun solutions can help make our roads safer without creating a sense of inconvenience.

If the 60 km/h limit saves just one life, the small inconvenience it causes is surely worth it. By combining thoughtful road design, creative measures, and an evidence-based approach to speed limits, we can protect our community and create safer roads for all.

It’s time we looked beyond just speed limits and embraced a more innovative approach to road safety—one that balances convenience with the protection of life.