Faster and safer journeys as Ovingham project wraps up

Monday, 13 February 2023

The Ovingham Level Crossing Removal Project is now complete, with the new Torrens Road bridge and upgraded Churchill/Torrens Roads intersection completely open to traffic.

As well as the new overpass over the Adelaide Metro Gawler rail line and Australian Rail Track Corporation freight line, and the upgraded intersection, the project also includes a new community plaza, bike lanes, artwork, extensive landscaping and other improvements.

The project was jointly funded by the Australian and South Australian governments on a 50:50 basis.

More than 21,000 vehicles cross the new bridge each day.

Prior to the removal of the crossing, the boom gates were down for almost a quarter of the time during the morning and afternoon peak periods, significantly impacting traffic flow and slowing down commutes and travel times.

These delays are now a thing of the past as cars drive up and over the rail line via the new bridge.

As part of the project, the adjacent Ovingham Railway Station has been upgraded, while extensive landscaping has been undertaken in the vicinity of the overpass.

The precinct also includes a community plaza, playground equipment and Aboriginal artwork installations, including murals on the pillars and abutment.

The site office and laydown areas that have been in use during construction will be converted into public parks, providing the community with additional open green space.

These parks will be located along Drayton Street, Chief Street and Churchill Road.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport delivered the project as part of an alliance (the Public Transport Projects Alliance – Ovingham) with McConnell Dowell Constructors (Aust) Pty Ltd, Mott MacDonald Australia Pty Ltd and Arup Pty Ltd.

On 12 February, the project team hosted a celebration event to thank the community for its patience and cooperation during the construction, utilising the new public spaces.