William Scott
Major works on the Augusta Highway Duplication Project are now complete, bringing safer, smoother journeys a step closer for motorists on a 29km stretch between Port Wakefield and Lochiel.
The federal and South Australian governments have jointly committed $185 million to the Augusta Highway Duplication project, with the federal government committing $148 million.
Motorists can now travel towards Lochiel along the two new northbound lanes, with existing lanes reverting to southbound-only traffic towards Port Wakefield.
On average, more than 3,600 vehicles travel on this section of highway each day with 1,100 of them being heavy vehicles. On public holidays and long weekends, that figure nearly doubles.
During construction, more than one million tonnes of pavement material and almost 40,000t of asphalt were laid. More than 80 stormwater crossings, 13 culverts, 12 new streetlights and 9km of safety barrier were also installed.
The new lanes are open, but final works along the highway and at intersections will require temporary speed limits. Northbound traffic will be restricted to 60km/h for the first week, increasing to 80km/h the following week, while the southbound carriageway will remain at 80km/h.
Signage will guide motorists through the changes, including new right-hand turns onto the highway. The speed limit will return to 110km/h by late March 2025, just in time for the Easter holidays.
The Augusta Highway Duplication project has supported more than 300 jobs.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that it has been an enormous effort from all involved to have these crucial upgrades completed ahead of a busy Easter holidays.
“During holiday periods this road can expect up to 6,000 vehicles a day, taking families to and from their vacation spots. Each one of them will be a safer drive, thanks to these crucial upgrades,” Ms King said.
South Australian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Tom Koutsantonis, said that whether driving up north to Port Augusta or heading south towards Adelaide, this duplicated highway will make the journey faster, safer and less stressful.
“For an extra 29km, motorists now won’t have to worry about being stuck behind a slower-moving vehicle, removing the risk of a driver trying to overtake in a dangerous manner,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“As finishing works get underway, I urge all drivers to adhere to the speed limits to keep themselves and others safe.
“We know continued road works can be frustrating, but I thank all drivers for their continued patience during this period.”
