Major pavement rehabilitation works on the South Eastern Freeway between the Tollgate and Crafers have resumed this week, moving the project towards completion following a winter pause.
The $35 million project, which is jointly funded by the Marshall and Morrison governments, was paused in early July because of cold and wet weather.
The next stage of pavement works will be undertaken on the outbound lanes of the freeway, from Crafers West to just east of the Crafers Interchange, and will take around four weeks.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Corey Wingard, said once this section is complete, motorists will enjoy around 6 kilometres of smoother and safer road in each direction.
"These are the first major asphalting works undertaken on this section of the Freeway in more than 20 years and will ensure the long term safety and integrity of the freeway for all road users while supporting 90 jobs during construction," Minister Wingard said.
"The resumption of pavement rehabilitation works following the winter break will require further restrictions for motorists, but it also means we are on the home stretch towards completing these works.
"The reduced speed limit will cause delays but the long term benefits will be worth the short term pain and I would like to once again thank all motorists for their patience while these important works are being undertaken."
New asphalt has now been laid in both directions of the six lane Freeway between the Tollgate and west of the Heysen Tunnels. Altogether, this equates to just over 58,000 tonnes of asphalt being laid to date.
The project is on track to be completed in late 2021, with the remaining works to focus on the section between the Heysen Tunnels and Crafers.
Tenders have also been released to market for additional pavement rehabilitation works at the intersection of the South Eastern Freeway with Portrush Road, Cross Road and Glen Osmond Road.
These works at the base of the Freeway will support another 35 jobs during construction and are scheduled to commence in late 2021, and be completed in early 2022.
"This additional work continues our long term approach to the safety and longevity of this important Freeway, and will benefit the approximately 72,000 motorists who use the intersection each day," Minister Wingard said.
Further resurfacing of the Freeway between Stirling and Tailem Bend is planned for 2022, to improve ride quality for Hills motorists and heavy vehicles.
The project is jointly funded (80:20) by the Australian and South Australian governments and is expected to support 40 jobs during construction.
For further information on current traffic restrictions, including work hours, temporary ramp closures, speed restrictions and the heavy vehicle detour, please visit the project website: www.dit.sa.gov.au/infrastructure/road_projects/south_eastern_freeway_resurfacing_crafers_to_tollgate
