Overview

BMD Constructions was contracted by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) to transform two existing junctions into roundabouts and add a left turn deceleration lane on the Sturt Highway in South Australia. As a major undivided rural arterial road, the Sturt Highway forms a vital connection between the Northern Expressway near Gawler in Adelaide’s north and Riverland and Victoria in the east.

The upgrades were designed to deliver safer and faster travel for commuters by reducing the speed at which traffic can travel and providing a clear passage for through movements in both directions. The provision of a left turn deceleration lane from Sturt Highway into Holder Top Road improves safety by reducing the risk of rear-end crashes and avoiding traffic build up.

The Sturt Highway Corridor Upgrade has been jointly funded by the Australian and South Australian governments.

Scope

The scope of works for the project included:

demolition of existing intersection
10,900m³ of bulk earthworks
360 metres of new drainage infrastructure
21,750m² of new granular pavements
11,700m³ of profiling of existing pavement material
3500 metres of kerbing
3000 metres of road lighting conduit
67 new light poles
26,400 tonnes of asphalt
temporary traffic management
installation of road furniture and line marking

Outcomes

Despite a significant increase to the original scope, the project was completed 91 days ahead of schedule.
BMD’s safety-focused culture led to the delivery of the project lost time injury (LTI) free over the 33,000 hours worked.
Fostered strong relationships with Berri Barmera Council and the local community and used 100% local subcontractors and suppliers.
The introduction of detours and construction of much larger online stages saved approximately three months off the overall project duration and meant the overall quality of the final surface was significantly improved.
Accessed a custom-built facility which allowed for production of asphalt within close proximity to each junction, an approach which significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions through reduced haulage of raw materials and manufactured asphalt.