The Morrison and Marshall Governments have announced the preferred design for the Ovingham Level Crossing Removal Project, elevating Torrens Road over the Gawler and freight railway lines.
Showcased through new animation, the design demonstrates how the project will bus congestion for the 23,000 on average that pass through this level crossing each day.
The Ovingham Level Crossing Removal is excepted to create 105 jobs each year over the life of the project.
Premier of South Australia Steven Marshall said this project formed part of the State Liberal Government's record $12.9 billion infrastructure build over the next four years.
"We have created a massive pipeline of infrastructure works to support local construction jobs and businesses here in South Australia," said Premier Marshall.
"As part of our strong plan to ensure South Australian bounces back stronger than before the COVID pandemic we are also delivering a further $1 billion of economic stimulus to help keep as many South Australians in a job as possible."
Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said getting rid of the Ovingham Level Crossing was another great example of the Morrison and Marshall Governments working together for the people of South Australia.
"Not only will this bust congestion, but it will give the SA economy an essential boost and it will mean more local jobs," Mr Tudge said.
"At a time like this it is so important that we crack on with critical infrastructure across Adelaide and the rest of the state."
Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government Stephan Knoll said this upgrade would save motorists time and improve road safety.
"At the moment the boom gates at this level crossing are down for around 26 minutes during both peak periods which causes traffic delays and frustrates motorists," said Minister Knoll.
"Once complete, this level crossing upgrade will ensure motorists never have to wait for a train to pass again here, making their ride to and from work or home safer and faster."
Member for Adelaide Rachel Sanderson said she was thrilled the Marshall Liberal Government was delivering this long-overdue upgrade for her constituents.
"My constituents have told me for years this current stretch of road is dangerous and always busy," said Minister Sanderson.
"This multi-million upgrade is fantastic news - it will not only bust congestion and save valuable minutes off travel times, it will reduce air and noise pollution for residents in the surrounding suburbs."
The preferred design also involves the elevation of the western end of Churchill Road, which intersects with Torrens Road approximately 100 metres from the Ovingham Level Crossing heading towards the city, so that it meets the elevated height of Torrens Road.
Following community consultation, the preferred design will also result in the following benefits:
- minimal disruption to rail users and freight line;
- fewer traffic impacts on local streets;
- shorter construction time;
- no business or residential property acquisition;
- the least impacts on major underground services;
- improved safety outcomes; and,
- improved walkability and creation of new community open space.
The boom gates at Torrens Road, Ovingham are down for approximately 22 per cent of the time during the combined morning and afternoon peak periods.
The Morrison and Marshall Governments have allocated $231 million towards the removal of the level crossing at Torrens Road, Ovingham.
Early works are expected to commence later this year with major construction to start in 2021 and project completion anticipated in 2023.
