SCHOOL kids and the elderly will be able to cross Shore Street and Wellington Street in safety if a promise of $3.5million is granted for lights at the busy roundabout.
Bowman MP Andrew Laming made the election pledge in front of a crowd of Cleveland aged care residents, who were glad to see the end of the roundabout.
Mr Laming said the roundabout and was on the main road into the city and needed an overhaul as it was one of the busiest south of Brisbane, connecting southern Redlands, Cleveland and Ormiston.
He said the money would buy lights for the intersection, turning lanes and safe pedestrian crossings.
Mr Laming said it was "almost impossible" to cross the road safely from any direction on the roundabout.
“The influx of new business to the area has aggravated the traffic situation," he said.
“With Toondah Harbour and additional Cleveland development, this is an absolutely inevitable upgrade, best performed before the roundabout fails.
“I am happy to assist Redland City Council with this road because council already has significant obligations around the city and on the bay islands in particular."
Cleveland District State High School principal Paul Bancroft said his biggest concern was for students, both cycling and walking, coming from Ormiston and the northern side of Finucane Road.
“There really is no safe way to cross that road and it really is concerning,” he said.
Cleveland MP Mark Robinson said getting rid of the roundabout would not slow down traffic on Wellington Street and would help the elderly from Cleveland Manor Retirement Village.
He said he had many requests for lights at the corner.
"The more people who can get to and from the shops safely, the better it will be for businesses on all corners of the intersection."
Redland City mayor Karen Williams welcomed the federal investment pledge.
“This investment should significantly improve traffic flow and safety for motorists and pedestrians alike at one of the busiest intersections in the city," she said.
“It will be of particular benefit for pedestrians who have previously run the gauntlet to cross busy roads at the intersection.”