The Australian and South Australian governments have shortlisted two consortia to deliver major works on the Joy Baluch AM Bridge duplication and the Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway duplication projects.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the projects were an investment in the region’s economy.
“When complete, these projects will improve freight connectivity and reliability for South Australia’s key regional industries, lowering business costs and encouraging investment and jobs,” Mr McCormack said.
“They will also reduce congestion during peak holiday periods, supporting the tourism economy.”
South Australian Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government Stephan Knoll said the procurement would ensure best project outcomes.
“Importantly, this procurement model will ensure local small to medium enterprises are given the opportunity to deliver key aspects of these important projects, under the main works contract,” Mr Knoll said.
“The Marshall Government is supporting local construction jobs in South Australia through the $11.9 billion infrastructure pipeline we will be delivering over the next four years alone.”
Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said he was pleased to see the projects progressing.
“These improvements will be enormously beneficial for both locals and visiting motorists,” Mr Ramsey said.
“The projects will increase road safety, reduce travel times and provide safer overtaking opportunities, delivering more efficient and reliable travel.”
State Member for Narungga Fraser Ellis welcomed the news that construction was one step closer to commencing.
The Yorke Peninsula community has been waiting many years for a solution to Crash Corner so the progression of this very important Port Wakefield Overpass and duplication project that will improve safety and congestion is very welcome,” Mr Ellis said.
The shortlisting also covers a planning study and construction works for a jointly funded section of duplication on the Augusta Highway.
The two shortlisted consortia are:
- CPB Contractors Pty Ltd, Aurecon Pty Ltd and GHD Pty Ltd.
- Lendlease Pty Ltd and KBR Pty Ltd. Both consortia have considerable experience in delivering infrastructure projects in South Australia. CPB and Aurecon have previously worked together on the Torrens Road to River Torrens Project (T2T), Seaford Rail Extension and Goodwood Rail Junction Rail Grade Separation, while GHD has also worked on the T2T, as well as the South Road Superway.Lendlease and KBR have collaborated on the Southern Expressway Duplication, Lendlease is also delivering the North-South Corridor and Northern Connector Project and KBR worked on the Torrens Rail Junction Project.Major construction works on the Joy Baluch AM Bridge and Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway Duplication projects are expected to begin in 2020, with completion due in 2022, weather permitting. The projects combined are worth $290 million and are jointly funded on an 80:20 basis by the Australian and South Australian governments.
