An intersection on the Eyre Highway, at Kimba, will be upgraded to provide freight vehicles and other motorists with a safer and more efficient route.
The upgrade of the intersection with South Terrace and Cowell-Kimba Road is currently in the planning stages, to realign the highway and remove a dog-leg which enabled the Eyre Highway to cross the now disused railway line.
The upgrade is part of a $75 million commitment by the Australian and South Australian governments to improve the Eyre Highway between Border Village and Port Augusta.
South Australia's Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Corey Wingard, said as well as benefitting people travelling along the highway through the town, it will also improve the amenity of the area for Kimba residents, tourists and other visitors.
"The Eyre Highway is a key piece of the state's road infrastructure, providing the primary road link between South Australia and Western Australia," Minister Wingard said.
"It contributes to the competitiveness of Australia's agricultural and mining sectors by providing access to essential freight networks in South Australia.
"Making these improvements now will not only provide immediate benefits, but also support the economic future of our state."
Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said the $75 million package of works is well underway with shoulder sealing gangs moving methodically along the highway.
"The Federal Government has committed a billion dollars to roadworks in the Grey electorate on an 80:20 basis with the State Government," Mr Ramsey said.
"It is a once-in-a-generational investment in our regional road network and we will reap the benefit for years.
"The Kimba project is just part of the improvement of the primary road link between South Australia and Western Australia, benefiting heavy freight vehicles and other interstate and intrastate motorists.
"The works will also incorporate an eastbound rest area to give travellers an opportunity to stop and have a break on their journey, reducing fatigue and helping everyone get home safely to their families."
The Port Wakefield to Port Augusta (PW2PA) Alliance has been engaged to undertake the planning and design works of the intersection realignment and rest area.
Feedback is being be sought from local residents and other highway users on the full concept design.
These works are being delivered as part of the Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) initiative, which is aimed at improving access requirements for higher productivity vehicles. More information is available at https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/key_projects/initiatives/roads_strategic_importance.aspx
The PW2PA is delivering a number of other important regional projects on behalf of the department including the Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway Duplication, Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication, Dublin Saleyard Access Upgrade and overtaking lanes on Lincoln Highway, Flinders Highway and Western Approach Road.
