Construction tender for NT Stuart Hwy intersection upgrades released to market

Upgrades to one of Alice Springs’ busiest intersections are a step closer to being delivered, with the construction tender for the Stuart Highway and Schwarz Crescent intersection released to market.

This upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and Northern Territory Governments, and it aims to improve pedestrian safety at this key intersection that connects Alice Springs’ eastern suburbs with the town centre while also supporting access to St Philip’s College and local businesses.

This upgrade responds to community concerns and will deliver important safety improvements for the people who use this intersection every day.

The upgrade will include:

• Realigning Schwarz Crescent further north to create a new four-way signalised intersection with Smith Street and the Stuart Highway
• Installing controlled pedestrian crossings in all directions at the new traffic lights, providing a safer crossing point, particularly for school students
• Closing the existing section of Schwarz Crescent adjacent to the Stuart Highway

“Our government has listened to the community, and we are getting on with making this intersection safer and more efficient for the people who use it every day.

“This upgrade will make it safer for motorists to turn through the intersection, reduce vehicle queuing during peak periods, and improve pedestrian access across the Stuart Highway – making it easier for residents, local businesses and freight to get where they need to go.

“The works form part of the CLP Government’s significant investment in Territory roads, with Budget 2026-27 delivering more than $2 billion in key transport infrastructure projects to improve safety, reliability, and access across the Territory,” Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure, Treasurer and Member for Namatjira Bill Yan said.

“We know this is an important crossing point for students and families, particularly those travelling to and from St Philip’s College, and the new traffic lights will provide a safer and more controlled way to cross the Stuart Highway.

“This project will help keep traffic moving more smoothly, making everyday trips easier for residents and providing a more reliable route for local businesses,” Member for Braitling and Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment Joshua Burgoyne said.

Project map (source: Northern Territory Government)

Contracts for the detailed design and early works have been awarded to local Northern Territory contractors Byrne Consultants and MG Electrical Services. Works are already underway, including the relocation of overhead powerlines at the intersection.

Most of the work have already been completed, with the remainder to be carried out in conjunction with major intersection works.

Major construction on this project is expected to begin in February 2027 and be completed by February 2028.

“This major upgrade of the Stuart Highway, Schwarz Crescent and Smith Street intersection will ensure both motorists and heavy vehicle operators can safely navigate the area for years to come which is a great outcome for traffic in Alice Springs,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said.

“The Albanese Government contributed $9.6 million towards the total cost of the Stuart Highway and Schwarz Crescent intersection upgrade.

“The Albanese Government is committed to improving road safety and providing reliable transport infrastructure. This is essential for keeping communities connected, whether you’re travelling across town, between regional centres or accessing essential services.

“For families, students, local businesses and freight operators, having a safer and more efficient intersection will make everyday journeys easier and more predictable,” Federal member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour said.

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom; Northern Territory Government – Department of Logistics and Infrastructure; Infrastructure Magazine; Roads & Infrastructure Australia