A QUARTER of a million dollars has been approved to help children cross a busy road at Illawong.
The project will include new traffic lights and a pedestrian crossing.
The year 7 student underwent surgery for a broken leg after she was hit while trying to cross a section of Old Illawarra Road where there were no pedestrian crossings or traffic lights.
Sutherland Shire Council was aware of the dangers at the time but was awaiting funding to improve safety.
It allocated $150,000 in its 2013-14 budget for traffic signals at the intersection of Old Illawarra Road and Oriana Drive, but this week the state government approved an additional $250,000.
The council's report from last year stated that "little consideration was given at the time to providing safe pedestrian access" on a road that was at the time under the control of the former Roads and Traffic Authority.
A council spokeswoman said it asked the government for funding assistance several times.
Menai MP Melanie Gibbons said funding became available in the past few weeks, following an extensive program of consultations.
"We've been working on moving that money up and finding a solution since the accident," she said.
The announcement was made after the Leader contacted the council last week, to get an update on the progress of its promise to improve safety.
At the same time, Menai High School principal Edith McNally told parents in a newsletter that it was also waiting on an outcome. Mrs McNally welcomed the funding.
"I am delighted that a long-sought solution to a long-standing problem has been approved and will provide effective protection," she said.
"The road is a recipe for a disaster.
"We constantly warn students about the need for vigilance.
"Without protection our kids are in jeopardy every day."
Menai parent Paula Collins said the funding was overdue.
"It might seem like just a 14-month delay to them, but in that time an accident could have happened," she said.
"I still worry every afternoon when my daughter walks home — it was her best friend who was hit."
Mayor Steve Simpson said the project would start before Easter.
"Every effort will be made to minimise noise from the work on residents and businesses and the community will be advised ahead of the start date," he said.
Are you pleased that the crossing will be installed?
