If you’ve ever sat bumper-to-bumper at the Marion Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive intersection, watching the minutes tick by, you’re not alone. More than 60,000 vehicles pass through this busy meeting point every single day, and now relief is officially in the works.
A massive $85 million upgrade is underway for this traffic hotspot, aiming to make your journey faster, safer, and a whole lot less frustrating. Jointly funded by the Australian and South Australian governments, the project promises new dedicated turning and through lanes, a longer left-turn lane heading towards Adelaide Airport, and bike lanes in every direction.
This means fewer bottlenecks, smoother rides, and less “rat-running” down side streets as drivers try to dodge the gridlock – something many of us have experienced.
The intersection is a key link between the city and the airport, with thousands of commuters, freight vehicles, and travellers relying on it daily. And with 28 crashes recorded here between 2018 and 2022, it’s clear things needed an upgrade.
According to Minister Tom Koutsantonis, “This intersection has been a significant pain point for commuters, locals and travellers over the last few years. With these upgrades, we’ll improve traffic efficiency, decrease queue lengths and reduce dangerous rat-running on surrounding streets.”
Federal Member for Adelaide Steve Georganas agrees, adding, “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. Once complete, the upgrades will ensure people can get to their destination on time.”
If you’ve driven through recently, you’ve probably noticed things already taking shape, with major construction works ramping up. Crews are busy laying kerbing, drainage, lighting, electrical infrastructure, and fresh new pavement, all while keeping the intersection open to traffic.
Another upgrade is at the pedestrian crossing just north of Jenkins Street on Marion Road – changing to a push-button crossing – making it safer for anyone walking to local shops, schools or bus stops.
The entire project is set to wrap up in early 2026 and will support around 125 jobs along the way. So while we’ve got a little while to wait, the payoff will be worth it. Safer, quicker, smoother trips for everyone.
WHAT: Marion Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive upgrade
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