To implement traffic calming measures of asphalt art and planter boxes with trees within the Youth Precinct of Carnarvon in design coordination with the community to increase road safety and create a youth-focused zone. The Shire of Carnarvon recently received funding to revitalise the Youth Precinct, resulting in the creation of a new Pump Track and a half basketball court, complete with shade and additional facilities for youth. Additionally, Aboriginal artist Darryl Bellotti was engaged to work with local youth on the revitalisation of the Skate Park, which was completed in April 2024.
The Youth Precinct now includes the Aquatic Centre, Skate Park, Pump Track, and half basketball court. It is situated along the busy Babbage Island Road, near the Police Station and School, and serves as a route to the popular Heritage Precinct tourist attraction. The community is required to cross a road to access either facilities, raising concerns for safety and a need for traffic calming project to occur.
1. Build local capability and capacity The project empowered local young people to actively participate in the design and installation of street improvements within a safe space along with other members of the community. This involvement-built skills and fostered a sense of ownership and pride in a public space.
2. Change attitudes and behaviours The involvement of local young people in the design and installation of the street interventions fostered a strong sense of pride and ownership over the space. As a result, there has been a noticeable increase in youth presence and positive use of the precinct and its street furniture. This youth-led approach encouraged respectful behaviour and greater care for the area, contributing to a shift in how the space is valued and used by the broader community.
3. Enhance street environment The installation of planter boxes and trees created a greener, more vibrant streetscape that improved the safety and usability of local streets, making the area more welcoming and people friendly.
4. Trial a collaborative model The project successfully implemented and evaluated a collaborative approach, bringing together the Shire of Carnarvon, local youth, and community groups to jointly plan and deliver street safety and improvement initiatives, providing a replicable model for future projects
Changes in attitudes and behaviours reflection: During and after the project, we observed a noticeable reduction in vehicle speeds around the youth precinct, particularly during the installation and painting of the planter boxes. This suggests increased driver awareness and caution in the area. Additionally, over the past three weeks, there has been a marked increase in the number of young people using the precinct, indicating that the improved environment is encouraging more active and positive use of the space by local youth. These changes reflect a growing community appreciation for safer, more welcoming streets that support both pedestrians and drivers.
