The South Australian Government has revealed a glimpse of the preferred design option for the widening of Flagstaff Road, with early construction works set to begin within months.
The $33 million upgrade, which will create nearly 40 jobs per year, will see the infamous road expanded to a two-way dual carriageway between Hyland Avenue and Bonneyview Road to improve safety and bust traffic congestion.
Currently, the centre lane is reversed daily to manage traffic flows during peak periods which can cause confusion for motorists.
South Australian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Corey Wingard, said it’s exciting to see the progress on the vital road project.
“This upgrade to Flagstaff Road forms part of our record $12.9 billion investment in infrastructure across the state,” Mr Wingard said.
“More than 21,000 motorists use this road every day and it’s current design can cause confusion and lead to accidents.
“The widening of the road will not only improve safety, it will also reduce traffic congestion, save valuable minutes from the commute time for locals and improve access for emergency services vehicles.
“Two prequalified contractors, Bardavcol and BMD Constructions, have been shortlisted to participate in the next phase of the procurement process to undertake the works.”
Member for Davenport, Steve Murray, said locals have been pushing for this upgrade for decades.
“For many years people living in the southern suburbs have been crying out for an additional lane on Flagstaff Road,” Mr Murray said.
“We promised to deliver an additional lane and make this road a two-way dual carriageway and we’re delivering on that commitment.”
Other works as part of the project include the construction of a new central median, new shared-use path on the eastern side of Flagstaff Road, new northbound bicycle lane, new and upgraded LED road lighting, and new safety barrier.
Early works are expected to start in late 2020 with major construction scheduled to begin early 2021.
A virtual room has been developed to allow interested people to explore the project and stay up to date with progress, which can be viewed here.
