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The State Government has initiated major construction works at a high-risk intersection in the Adelaide Hills, as part of a significant enhancement in safety for Blackwood’s residents and frequent travellers. The project is focused on the intersection of Shepherds Hill Road, Brighton Parade, and Waite Street, which will see considerable upgrades to facilitate safer travel.
The improvements form the final commitment of the Government’s $20 million Mitcham Hills Road Corridor upgrade. This program also covers the completed enhancements at the Russell Street, Main Road, and Sheoak Road junctions. The Blackwood project will include the installation of traffic lights and pedestrian crossings on all approaches to the intersection, paired with dedicated bicycle lanes.
Over the past four years, this particular intersection has witnessed eight right-turn accidents. It operates under the daily pressure of almost 30,000 vehicles, so with planned modifications including signalised dedicated right turn lanes for all approaches, it should provide significantly better access to local streets and businesses.
Emily Bourke MLC, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, shared, “This upgrade is about improving the safety for the thousands of motorists, pedestrians and cyclists who use this intersection every day. By installing new traffic lights, pedestrian crossings and dedicated cycling lanes, we’re creating a safer connection into the heart of Blackwood.”
The intersection upgrade will also see the implementation of upgraded LED lighting, widening of Shepherds Hill Road, resurfacing of road pavements, and new line marking. These enhancements are designed to optimise traffic flow towards the Blackwood roundabout and back towards the city, linked with the timing sequences of the new pedestrian crossings and those already existing.
While the construction is expected to maintain the openness of Shepherds Hill Road to traffic with some speed and lane restrictions, temporary closures will be necessary on Waite Street and Brighton Parade to facilitate the works.
Local Member for Waite, Catherine Hutchesson, added, “This intersection has been a worry for our community for a long time, and so I am very pleased to see real action being taken to make it safer. This upgrade is about making sure everyone, whether you’re driving, walking or riding a bike, can get where they need to go safely.
“When we invest in safer roads, we are investing in our community. This intersection is going to make a real difference. It is not just about traffic flow, it’s about making Blackwood an even better, safer place to live and visit.”
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