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RAA is warning of increased foot traffic in the CBD during Gather Round, and urging footy fans to use public transport where possible.
Over the past five years, 154 total lives have been lost in Adelaide’s metro area, with 37 of these pedestrians (24%) and 15 cyclists (10%).
That means pedestrians and cyclists accounted for more than a third of lives lost on metro roads.
Last year, city-wide foot traffic was more than 1.8 million during April, a 10% increase on April 2023 – according to data from the Australian Economic Development Agency.
While the East End saw a 22% increase in foot traffic, it was Hindley Street that saw the largest increase of 48%.
RAA is urging walkers to keep left on footpaths to keep pedestrian traffic flowing freely this weekend.
With more than 200,000 tickets sold across nine Gather Round matches, RAA Senior Manager Road Safety Charles Mountain is urging road users to take extra precautions.
“High volumes of interstate visitors are again expected across Adelaide and will contribute to the overall increase in foot traffic, particularly in the Adelaide CBD and around Norwood and the Barossa,” Mr Mountain said.
“Event speed restrictions will be in place, with a 25km/h speed limit to again operate on North Terrace – from Morphett Street Bridge to King William Street.
“Ensure you’re following signage and instructions of traffic controllers at all times.
“As the footpaths and walkways will be busy it’s a good idea to keep to the left to allow faster walkers to overtake you and avoid those awkward interactions with pedestrians coming the other way.
“And when crossing a road, put your phone away until you have safely crossed.”
RAA is urging fans to utilise free public transport for all Gather Round games to reduce the pressure on Adelaide’s roads this weekend.
For those heading to games in the Barossa, with no parking at the venue there will be free shuttle bus services operating from either the city or multiple Park n Ride locations near Lyndoch. More information can be found on the Adelaide Metro website.
“Almost half of the 222,000 Gather Round ticket holders used free Adelaide Metro services across the four-day festival last year, so it’s great to see so many fans making the most of public transport,” Mr Mountain said.
“Footy fans can catch free public transport to all matches across Gather Round with a game day ticket again this year, which will be available from 12:00pm on Thursday and Friday and all day Saturday and Sunday.
“Bike racks are also available outside the North, South and East gates of Adelaide Oval.
“RAA encourages footy fans to use public transport, which will help reduce congestion on our roads and help everyone get to and from the games safely.”
Adelaide Metro Gather Round services
Road closures: