The project involves the construction of a new bridge, adjacent the existing two-lane Joy Baluch AM Bridge, to allow for two lanes of traffic in both directions between Mackay Street (east of the bridge) and Burgoyne Street (west of the bridge), and upgrades to pedestrian and cyclist facilities, with connectivity provided from the new bridge to the Eastside Foreshore. Further works include:

• upgrade to the intersection at Mackay Street and Augusta Highway, including traffic signals and new pavements;
• remediation and strengthening to both the existing Joy Baluch AM Bridge and the bridge over the ARTC rail corridor between Flinders Street and Mackay Street;
• widening of the existing embankments from Tassie Street to the west of Flinders Terrace to accommodate new lanes and a shared path facility; and
• new connections for pedestrians and cyclists from Mill Street and Tassie Street to the Mackay Street intersection, and removal of the existing spiral staircase on the Eastside Foreshore.

As part of the delivery of urban design elements and artworks for the project, the Alliance has been collaborating with Aboriginal stakeholder groups, Port Augusta City Council and other key stakeholders in the design and implementation of cultural elements to strengthen local identity, cultural respect and interpretation of place.

On 15 May 2022, the newly constructed bridge opened to traffic, with all vehicles directed to use the new bridge to allow for the remediation of the existing Joy Baluch AM Bridge. 

Another significant milestone was achieved on the project on 6 June 2023, when two lanes of traffic opened in each direction on the Joy Baluch AM Bridge, and signalised Mackay Street intersection became operational.

Some intermittent lane and speed restrictions will continue to be required for finishing works, ahead of the project’s full completion in 2024.

Additional project information can be found on the Department for Infrastructure and Transport’s website: Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication – Department for Infrastructure and Transport – South Australia (dit.sa.gov.au)