Marion Rd & Sir Donald Bradman Dr intersection upgrade a step closer

Concept designs have been released for the $85 million intersection upgrade on Adelaide’s Marion Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive. 

Marion Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive serve as major commuter, freight and public transport routes that cater to around 60,000 vehicles each day. 

The concept plan is the result of extensive planning, site investigations, engineering surveys and stakeholder engagements. Early works and site investigations will continue as part of the detailed design process to be undertaken throughout this year. 

The proposed intersection upgrade will include: 

• Increased through-lanes on Sir Donald Bradman Drive heading west and new dedicated turning lanes on Sir Donald Bradman Drive in both directions 
• Extended storage for the left turn lane onto Sir Donald Bradman Drive heading west 
• New LED road lighting, asphalt, drainage, kerbing and gutters 
• Upgraded pedestrian crossings at the intersection and on Marion Road, improving safety for pedestrians 
• New dedicated bicycle lanes on all approaches, improving safety for cyclists 
• Urban design, landscaping and potential new public open space 

Concept design map (source: SA Department for Infrastructure and Transport)

The community is now invited to have their say on the community space and landscaping elements of the project. The feedback received will help shape the project as well as address existing issues. 

“Upgrading the Marion Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive intersection is vital to reduce delays and improve traffic flow and safety for all road users. 

“The intersection is a direct link between the city and the airport, and this upgrade will ensure that people can get to their destination on time. 

“This upgrade isn’t just about motorists, it is also about providing improved access and safety for cyclists and pedestrians. 

“It also creates the opportunity to provide a new community space for locals, and we want to hear what people would like to see created there. I encourage you to visit the website, take a look at the plan and provide your feedback,” Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tom Koutsantonis said. 

Major construction on the project is anticipated to commence in late 2024 and be completed in early 2026. 

Once open to traffic, the upgraded intersection will help improve traffic flow and safety on Marion Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive. The project will also improve the reliability and amenity of Sir Donald Bradman Drive as the ‘Gateway to Adelaide’, especially between Adelaide Airport and the CBD. 

The $85 million upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and South Australian Governments, each contributing $42.5 million. 

Source: Government of South Australia – News; Government of South Australia – Department for Infrastructure and Transport; We Are SA