Torrens Rd to be elevated over Ovingham rail crossing in plan to bust peak-hour congestion and create construction jobs
A level crossing on the northern fringe of the CBD that has frustrated motorists for years is finally getting fixed. See the video to learn how the $231 million project will transform traffic flows.
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Torrens Rd will be elevated over the Gawler freight rail lines in a major fix for the Ovingham level crossing that has frustrated peak-hour motorists for years.
The State and Federal Governments on Monday made a joint announcement on progress for the project, for which $231 million has so far been committed.
The crossing is located near the fringe of the Adelaide CBD on Torrens Rd at Ovingham. An average of 23,000 vehicles pass through the level crossing each day.
The boom gates at Torrens Rd, Ovingham are down for approximately 22 per cent of the time in peak traffic.
The State Government says removal of the level crossing will lead to improved travel times for motorists, better reliability for buses using Torrens Rd and increased freight productivity.
The western end of Churchill Rd is also set to be raised to meet the elevated Torrens Rd.
Early works are expected to begin this year, and major works next year.
The build is expected to be complete in 2023.
Premier Steven Marshall said it was part of a record $12.9 billion infrastructure spend.
“We have created a massive pipeline of infrastructure works to support local construction jobs and businesses here in SA,” he said.
“As part of our strong plan to ensure SA bounces back stronger than before, we are also delivering a further $1 billion of economic stimulus.”
Federal Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Minister Alan Tudge said the project would bust congestion and deliver an “essential” boost to SA’s economy and jobs.
Major infrastructure projects including BHP’s proposed expansion of Olympic Dam are also being fast-tracked as part of Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s plan to build the nation out of the COVID-19 recession.
The Torrens Rd build is expected to support 105 jobs a year over the life of the project.
