Following the beginning of the Expressions of Interest process, South Australia’s $231 million Ovingham Level Crossing Removal Project in South Australia marks a new milestone with the announcement of a preferred design for the project.
This new milestone takes the multi-million-dollar project one step closer to construction, which will create up to 105 jobs each year.
The Ovingham Level Crossing Removal Project is part of the South Australian Government’s $12.9 billion infrastructure pipeline that will be delivered 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.
“As part of our strong plan to ensure South Australia 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,” Premier Steven Marshall said.
The level crossing on Torrens Road currently caters to up to 23,000 vehicles each day and this project will help bust congestion on this section of road.
“Not only will this bust congestion, but it will give the SA economy an essential boost and it will mean more local jobs.
“At a time like this it is so important that we crack on with critical infrastructure across Adelaide and the rest of the state,” Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said.
The preferred design for the Ovingham Level Crossing Removal Project will feature an elevated Torrens Road over the Gawler railway line. The design will also include elevating the western end of Churchill Road that intersects with Torrens Road – about 100 metres from the level crossing that heads towards the city – so that it meets Torrens Road’s elevated height.
“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.
“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,” Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government Stephan Knoll said.
Benefits of the preferred design – which was the result of community consultation – include:
- 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
- Improved walkability and creation of new community open space
“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,” Member for Adelaide Rachel Sanderson said.
The Expressions of Interest process began in April and the construction contract is expected to be rewarded late this year.
Early works are also anticipated to begin later in 2020 and major construction to commence in 2021.
The Ovingham Level Crossing Removal Project is due to be completed in 2023.
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Source: Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure; SA Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure; Inside Construction
