The community has been asked about upcoming changes to Collins Street, kicking off a crucial engagement process that will define the two-year trial.
The installation of new infrastructure for the Transforming Collins Street project will begin on March 24 and continue for about six weeks, prepping the site with the aim of creating a more vibrant environment.
The project is centred around new streetside dining areas, a zebra crossing, separated bicycle lanes, and other pedestrian-friendly upgrades to make the area more accessible and inviting.
The City of Hobart held two drop-in sessions at 188 Collins Street as part of the pre-installation engagement.
As part of the trial, engagement with the community will take place at five key intervals to track how the changes are received and report back to elected members.
This process will paint a picture of how the upgrades impact those who use the street.
The City wants to hear directly from the people who experience these changes - whether they’re moving through Collins Street, working in the area, or using the parking spaces.
A City of Hobart community engagement officer speaking with a member of the public about the project.
The first round of engagement took place across the first two weeks of March, with more than 100 people sharing their views through an online survey, face-to-face interviews on the street, and drop-in sessions.
The feedback will provide a valuable foundation as the project progresses.
This early engagement gives the City a baseline to track how perceptions and usage evolve throughout the trial.
The Hobart City Council has asked staff to gather a range of data and sentiment so the City can assess the impacts and benefits over time.
City of Hobart officers at one of the drop-in sessions.
Those who have not yet shared their thoughts on the Transforming Collins Street project can still complete the online YourSay survey, which is open until Sunday, March 16.
Findings from the pre-installation engagement round, as well as usage data, will be publicised on the project web page and the City's social media channels once available.
The next engagement phase is expected to take place in June, once the changes have been in place for at least a month.