Two tram level crossings at Glenelg will be removed, and an existing overpass upgraded, in new designs released for the Marion Road–Anzac Highway to Cross Road project in Adelaide’s southwest.
The removal of the crossings is part of ongoing efforts to reduce congestion and will make travel in the area safer, faster and easier for people who use public transport, walk, cycle or drive.
The Australian and South Australian governments have each contributed $200 million towards removing the Glenelg crossings at Marion Road and Cross Road, Plympton, by constructing a tram overpass across both roads.
Currently, boom gates impact traffic flow for up to 20 minutes each hour, with around 30 trams travelling through the crossings during morning and afternoon peaks – affecting approximately 50,000 vehicles each day.
This causes significant traffic delays, resulting in traffic diverting through local streets and consequently increasing the risk of accidents and slowing the movement of public transport in this area.
As part of the work, a new tram stop will be built between Marion and Cross roads, which will include lifts and stairs on both sides.
The Mike Turtur Bikeway and shared use path will also be elevated, while the area underneath will be revitalised with new open space for public use.
It is anticipated the tram line will be closed for between six to nine months to allow for construction, with substitute buses running in its place.
Closing the line will mean the projects can be undertaken without operating trams and will allow these overpasses as well as the rebuild of the South Road overpass to be constructed at the same time, within the existing corridor.
This will significantly reduce the overall construction time and impacts that would otherwise be required if these projects were constructed separately.
As part of the project, the capacity of turning lanes will also be increased at the intersections of Marion Road and Anzac Highway, and Marion Road and Cross Road.
These upgrades will further ease congestion and improve travel times and safety.
Concept plans are currently being developed for the intersection upgrades and will be released shortly.
Federal infrastructure and transport minister Catherine King said the Australian Government investment in this project would ensure commuters can benefit from safer, faster and easier trips along these crucial traffic links for years to come.
“This project demonstrates our government’s commitment to supporting more efficient, resilient and integrated traffic and transport solutions for South Australians,” she said.
SA infrastructure and transport minister Tom Koutsantonis said the removal of level crossings reduce congestion and improve safety for everyone who drives, walks, cycles or catches public transport through the area.
“The Marion Road and Cross Road crossings are unique in that there are two crossings, and an intersection, all in close proximity. Removing those two crossings will let traffic flow easier and faster,” he said.
“An overpass will cut travel times and make public transport services a more attractive option for commuters.
“Trams will be able to go up and over the roads, and buses won’t need to stop at the boom gates.”
State Member for Badcoe Jayne Stinson said with her own office metres from the intersection, she had experienced the frustrating traffic snarl every day.
“A tram overpass is the best solution for us locals because it drastically reduces the need to acquire homes, provides greater cyclist safety and delivers open space to our community,” she said.
“I’ll also be supporting those affected by the construction, including the very small number of people requiring help to find new homes and business locations.”
