• Funding program Roads to Recovery Program
  • Status Under construction
  • Transport mode Road
  • Expected start/finish Sep 2025 - May 2026
  • Estimated project cost $210,000
  • Australian Government contribution $210,000
  • Local Council/Shire Berri Barmera Council
  • State SA

Project description

This stretch of road is prone to erosion, potholes, and wear. The unsealed section generates significant dust during dry weather, making it uncomfortable and potentially hazardous for drivers, particularly when transitioning between the sealed and unsealed sections. It has also become a known source of ongoing customer complaints. McDonald Road, along with Gillespie Road, is one of the last remaining unsealed roads in the allocated area. While Gillespie Road is being upgraded to spray seal through the RTR program this financial year, McDonald Road remains unsealed and poses similar challenges. Given that McDonald Road serves as an important route connecting to the Sturt Highway, sealing this road would significantly improve road safety, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance the driving experience for the general public and pedestrians.

The upgrade will involve grading the current sub-base to achieve a suitable formation. Following this, a new 32mm PM-grade road base will be constructed over a stretch of 1.5 km, at a width of 8 metres to a compacted thickness of 150 mm. Appropriate compaction will be carried out to ensure long-term durability. Once the base layer is in place and properly compacted, a 14/7 spray seal treatment will be applied over a 6.2-metre width along the full 1.5 km length. This design will leave 900 mm wide shoulders on each side, allowing safe room for both cyclists and pedestrians using the road. Final works will include line marking and installation of appropriate signage once the spray seal has been completed. These finishing touches will not only enhance road safety but will also contribute to a more structured and navigable route. Completing this upgrade will eliminate the need for ongoing grading and maintenance and will provide a safer, more reliable road for all users, including local residents, commuters, and recreational users accessing the Sturt Highway via McDonald Road.

Project last updated:

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