A major traffic headache in Adelaide’s booming northern suburbs is one step closer to being removed, with a new concept design revealed for the $250 million Curtis Road Level Crossing Removal project.
The project will replace the existing rail crossing at Curtis Road with a new dual-lane road overpass, allowing traffic to move safely over the Gawler passenger rail line without being held up by boom gates.
It is a major upgrade for one of the north’s busiest growth corridors, with around 21,000 vehicles using the level crossing each day. During peak periods, the boom gates can be down for up to 15 minutes every hour, adding delays for local families, workers, businesses and school traffic.
The proposed design includes a new link road connecting to Curtis Road, improving access to the growing Playford Alive East development. A new connection between Charlotte Street and Alawoona Road would also provide an alternative local route under the overpass, while several side street connections along Curtis Road would become left-in, left-out only to help keep traffic moving.
Pedestrians and cyclists have also been factored into the concept, with upgraded shared-use paths planned on both sides of Curtis Road and new wombat crossings included to improve safety.
State Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Joe Szakacs said, “This is a project shaped by the needs of a rapidly growing community in the northern suburbs, and we want to hear directly from locals to ensure we get the design right.”
“With around 21,000 vehicles using this crossing every day, removing the boom gates will improve travel times and reliability for families, workers and businesses.”
“This upgrade will not only ease congestion but also deliver safer connections for pedestrians and cyclists, helping create a more liveable and connected community.”
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said, “The northern suburbs of Adelaide are a wonderful place to live, and the local community is growing. That’s why the Albanese Government is investing in infrastructure to improve travel times and provide smoother and safer trips through this area.”
“The removal of the Curtis Street level crossing will mean better access to employment and education, less time waiting at busy boom gates in peak-hour traffic and more time with family and loved ones.”
“This is one of the many projects across Adelaide that we’re investing in to make the daily commute safer and more efficient.”
The project is jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments, with each contributing $125 million. Major works are expected to begin by 2027, with completion expected in 2030, and the project is anticipated to support 425 full-time-equivalent jobs per year during construction.
State Member for Taylor Nick Champion said, “For years, local families in the northern suburbs have dealt with delays, congestion and safety concerns at the Curtis Road level crossing, so it’s great to see this project continuing to move forward.”
“This project is about making daily life easier for local residents, improving safety, reducing travel delays and supporting the continued growth of our northern communities.”
“As the North continues to grow, infrastructure like this is critical to keeping people connected to jobs, schools, services and local businesses.”
“I encourage local residents to have their say during consultation and help shape the final design.”
Community information sessions will be held at Playford Uniting Church on Thursday, June 11 from 5pm to 7pm, and Saturday, June 13 from 11am to 1pm. An online survey will also be open until Sunday, June 21 for those unable to attend in person.
