Green light for Thurgoona major intersection upgrade design work
A safer, more accessible intersection is a step closer for Thurgoona, with AlburyCity Councillors voting on Monday to fast-track the design of upgrades at the corner of Shuter Avenue and Thurgoona Drive.
The decision follows strong community feedback calling for urgent action to address congestion, and limited safe access for people walking, riding and catching public transport in the heart of the Thurgoona Commercial Precinct.
The $200,000 funding commitment will allow Council to progress detailed designs for new traffic signals at the intersection, with funding to be accommodated through project savings — meaning no increase to Council’s adopted budget.
Albury Mayor Kevin Mack said the community’s message was clear.
“Residents told us they want to be able to walk safely to the Plaza and access local services without relying on a car. This upgrade is the first step towards making that possible, delivering a safer, more connected Thurgoona for everyone.”
The upgrade will respond to seven key issues raised during a recent engagement process, including access for people walking, congestion at peak times and limited transport choices. Incorporating this community input into the design phase will help ensure the project reflects local priorities and supports Thurgoona’s ongoing growth.
The suburb has been a key growth area since the late 1970s and continues to be the primary expansion zone within the Albury Local Government Area. The population has nearly doubled from around 6,500 in 2011 to approximately 12,580 in 2023, placing increased pressure on local transport infrastructure.
More than 150 residents attended a community event at the intersection in February this year, with Council also engaging with local businesses, Charles Sturt University, and other stakeholders. Feedback on three Sub-Precincts within the commercial area highlighted consistent themes:
- Upgrades to busy intersections
- Better facilities for walking and bike riding
- Improved bus stops and expanded routes
- More shade, seating and safe road crossings
- Stronger environmental protections
Sub-Precinct 1, centred on Shuter Avenue, was most frequently raised as needing urgent attention. Other Sub-Precincts focused on Diamond Drive and Table Top Road, as part of a holistic approach to traffic management in the commercial area of Thurgoona.
Residents described feeling unsafe walking to the Plaza, citing a lack of crossings and high traffic volumes. These concerns were echoed through previous engagement programs, including MOVE: The Albury Wodonga Integrated Transport Strategy and the Thurgoona Wirlinga Precinct Structure Plan Review.
While no broader funding is currently allocated to intersection upgrades in the 2025/2026 Delivery Program, Council’s decision will ensure the Shuter Avenue project can be prioritised. Budget adjustments will be finalised in the September Quarterly Budget Review.
Council also formally received and noted the full set of engagement findings, which will inform the next phase of infrastructure planning and design across the wider Thurgoona Commercial Precinct.