Risky roads on RAA’s radar

Posted 6 November, 2019 Jeremy Rochow

Confusing intersections, footpaths falling apart, incomplete bike lanes – what frustrates you as a road user? Now’s your chance to tell us which South Australian roads need improving.   It’s 2016, and you’re driving south along Diagonal Rd towards the Oaklands Crossing during afternoon peak-hour. Traffic builds and you come to a stop. Bells ring and boom gates lower as multiple trains travel through the level crossing.   Once they’ve passed, cars on Morphett Rd are given the go-ahead. Finally, traffic in your lane begins to move. For one respondent in RAA’s 2017 Risky Roads Survey, it took about 20 minutes during peak hour to get through the Oaklands Crossing intersection, so it was no surprise that it was the most nominated. RAA members said the junction had a confusing layout, lacked crossing or turning opportunities and didn’t have enough traffic signals.     Fast forward to 2019 and the Oaklands Crossing has received a $174 million overhaul, including a redesign and grade separation of the road and rail line. RAA’s Senior Manager for Safety and Infrastructure, Charles Mountain, says the upgrade has reduced delays through the busy intersection. “Connectivity has improved between Diagonal Rd and Morphett Rd, and the underpass has made it safer for pedestrians and cyclists to cross,” he says.

Risky Roads (intersections) 2017 funding to date

   

Risky Roads results

Since the 2017 Risky Roads Survey – completed by nearly 3000 RAA members – authorities have committed to improve, or improved 19 of 22 nominated roads and intersections.   More than $200 million has been spent so far. Another $581 million has been promised to fix issues mentioned by RAA members. “Blackwood roundabout was overhauled; however, RAA is still working with DPTI regarding operations of the intersection,” Mr Mountain says.

Risky Roads 2017 funding to date