Smooth road ahead with level crossing removals on track

Thursday, 27 October 2022

The plan to remove the two level crossings where the Glenelg tramline crosses Marion Road and Cross Road at Plympton has taken a step forward with site investigation works now underway.
These investigative works include drilling for soil samples and groundwater and will provide important information for the future design of the project.

The removal of the level crossings is part of ongoing efforts to reduce congestion at the crossings and nearby intersections, as well as improving safety for all road users.

The South Australian and Australian governments have jointly (50:50) committed $400 million towards removing the level crossings.

The level crossing removal will also include upgrades to the intersections of Marion Road and Cross Road, and Marion Road and Anzac Highway, to further address traffic congestion.

Almost 50,000 vehicles travel through these crossings every day, while more than 30 trams also pass through during the morning peak. This means that during peak times the boom gates are down for almost 20 minutes each hour. Congestion at these crossings causes significant delays, increased traffic through local streets, an increase in potential accidents as drivers take more risks and delays for public transport.

A planning study has been undertaken to explore how best to remove these level crossings, with further planning continuing. Surveying, service locating and ground investigation work has also commenced.

A separate planning study is also underway to investigate the removal of the level crossing where the Glenelg tramline crosses Morphett Road.

The removal of tram and train level crossings is important for improving safety for road users, and reducing congestion. It makes travel faster and easier for people who use public transport, walk, cycle or drive.