Works begin to upgrade Marion Rd & Sir Donald Bradman Dr intersection

Major works have now commenced on the $85 million Marion Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive intersection upgrade in South Australia. 

This intersection is not only a vital part of the journey to Adelaide Airport, but it also forms the meeting of two major commuter, freight and public transport routes. 

The Marion Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive intersection is currently over capacity which results in significant congestion, particularly during peak period. Upgrading this intersection will create safer and more reliable journeys for the thousands of vehicles that pass through it each day. 

“This intersection has been a significant pain point for commuters, locals and travellers over the last few years. 

“It’s over capacity and very congested. With these upgrades, we’ll improve traffic efficiency, decrease queue lengths and reduce dangerous rat-running on surrounding streets,” Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tom Koutsantonis said. 

The 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 

In addition, the crossing on the southern side of the intersection on Marion Road (north of Jenkins Street) is being upgraded to transform it into a Pedestrian Actuated Crossing (push-button) to improve safety for pedestrians visiting local shops, schools and public transport. 

Project map (source: SA Department for Infrastructure and Transport)

Between 2018 and 2022, this intersection has seen 28 crashes. The improvements to the intersection will help reduce rat-running on adjoining streets as well as create a safer and more efficient journey for all road users. 

Major works such as kerbing, drainage works, road lighting, electrical infrastructure and pavement works are now ramping up. 

The intersection will remain open throughout construction, with speed and lane restrictions in place to keep everyone safe. 

The project is expected to be completed in early 2026, supporting 125 jobs over its life. 

Local South Australian builder Bardavcol is undertaking the delivery of the project. 

“This intersection is a pivotal part of a direct link between the city and the airport, so it’s not just locals who will benefit from these works. 

“We’re making this vital transport corridor more reliable and efficient and, once complete, the upgrades will ensure people can get to their destination on time,” Federal Member for Adelaide Steve Georganas said. 

Source: Government of South Australia – Media Releases; Government of South Australia – Department for Infrastructure and Transport; Roads & Infrastructure Australia; Infrastructure Magazine