Targeted junction upgrades along River Road in the Adelaide Hills are on schedule to be completed next week, delivering practical safety and access improvements for motorists, freight operators and pedestrians.
The River Road Junction Improvements project has focused on two key intersections, addressing long-standing constraints for trucks, buses and local traffic while supporting safer movement through a growing regional road network.
At the intersection of River Road and Mount Barker Road, widening works now allow heavy vehicles to turn left onto Mount Barker Road and right into River Road without encroaching into opposing lanes. Around 11,000 vehicles pass through this junction each day, making turning movements a critical safety issue.
Pedestrian safety has also been upgraded at this location, with a new refuge on Mount Barker Road supported by new footpaths, ramps and tactile ground surface indicators. Lighting, drainage, signage and line marking have been improved, alongside targeted resurfacing works.
Bus operations have been addressed through the relocation and partial indentation of bus bays on Mount Barker Road, allowing traffic to pass safely when buses are stopped.
Further south, the junction of Strathalbyn Road and River Road now includes a dedicated right-turn lane from Strathalbyn Road into River Road. Around 3,600 vehicles use this intersection daily, and the change is designed to reduce conflict points and improve traffic flow.
Additional safety measures at this junction include road widening, resurfacing, drainage upgrades, new safety barriers, lighting and clearer line marking. Minor improvements have also been made to the Heysen Trail where it intersects with River Road, improving conditions for trail users.
Smaller junction upgrades have been completed at Kangaroo Reef, Sawmill Gully and Fairview roads, including road widening, improved signage and line marking. The River Road and Fairview Road junction has been realigned to improve sight lines for all users.
The works build on earlier maintenance projects aimed at improving visibility and safety along River Road, with minor landscaping and finishing works expected to continue into early 2026.
The project is funded jointly by the Australian and South Australian governments on an 80:20 basis, with River Road under the care and control of Mount Barker District Council.