The South Australian and Australian Governments are investing $31.8 million to deliver three new overtaking lanes on Main South Road, improving safety and traffic flow between Normanville and Cape Jervis.
The project, jointly funded on a 50:50 basis, delivers on a South Australian Government election commitment to make this key regional route safer for all road users.
The new lanes will enhance travel reliability for commuters, tourists and freight operators travelling between Adelaide, the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island.
Designs finalised to improve safety and traffic flow
Between 2020 and 2024, there were 17 injury crashes along this stretch of Main South Road, including one fatal crash in 2023.
The new overtaking lanes are expected to reduce crash risk and driver frustration by providing safer opportunities for passing slower vehicles, especially heavy freight.
The final locations for the overtaking lanes are:
- Normanville to Second Valley (northbound)
- Second Valley to Delamere (southbound)
- Delamere to Cape Jervis (northbound).
The locations were chosen following extensive analysis of road conditions, environmental impacts, land use, access points and community feedback.
These factors informed the final designs, which also address drainage and erosion, bus stop safety, speed limits and driveway access.
Delivering safer, more efficient connections
The upgrades will include new pavement and surfacing, improved drainage, line marking, Audio Tactile Line Marking, safety barriers and landscaping along selected sections. Construction is set to begin in early 2026, with completion expected in early 2027.
The project will support approximately 115 full-time equivalent jobs during construction.
Complementary upgrades further north
In addition to these works, both governments have committed a further $80 million to deliver two more overtaking lanes and safety improvements between Myponga and Yankalilla.
That project will include road widening, curve easing, and upgrades to bridges and culverts to improve safety and reduce delays for motorists.
Together, these investments will strengthen Main South Road’s safety, improve travel efficiency and ensure the route continues to support tourism, local communities and regional freight for decades to come.