Big changes are coming to Adelaide’s northern suburbs, with key road upgrades set to improve traffic flow, boost safety, and make the daily commute smoother.
From installing new traffic lights to widening roads and upgrading intersections, the South Australian government is tackling some of the most frustrating congestion and safety issues in Adelaide’s north.
While roadworks can be frustrating, these projects are essential for ensuring the region’s road network can handle increasing growth and demand as new housing development in the north booms.
Here’s a breakdown of the major upgrades and why they matter.
Interested in road works across SA? Check out Part One of this series, where we look at major road projects for 2025 in the Adelaide Hills.
1. Wynn Vale Drive and Bridge Road: A safer, smarter junction
What’s happening?
A major upgrade to the intersection of Wynn Vale Drive and Bridge Road in Gulfview Heights, including new traffic lights and pedestrian crossings.
Why?
This busy junction has long been a challenge for drivers and pedestrians. The upgrade will improve traffic flow and safety for all road users.
When?
Major construction started last week.
How will this help?
- Traffic lights will replace the current uncontrolled intersection.
- New pedestrian crossings will improve safety for those walking or cycling.
- A dedicated right-turn lane from Bridge Road into Wynn Vale Drive will reduce congestion.
- New footpaths, line marking, kerbs, and road surfacing will create a smoother, safer journey.
All the details: Wynn Vale Drive and Bridge Road upgrade
2. Main North Road and Target Hill Road: No more long U-turns
What’s happening?
A much-needed fix for the frustrating right-turn restrictions at this junction in Salisbury Heights.
Why?
Currently, motorists turning right onto Main North Road have to take a 1.6km detour via The Grove Way – this upgrade will allow direct access.
When?
Construction is expected to commence in July this year.
How will this help?
- New traffic lights will allow safer right turns.
- Two right-turn lanes on Target Hill Road will improve capacity.
- Removal of on-street parking will allow for better traffic flow.
- A new pedestrian refuge and push-button crossing will improve safety for pedestrians.
- A dedicated bicycle lane will make cycling safer in the area
All the details: Main North Road and Target Hill Road upgrade
3. The Grove Way and Canterbury Drive: Making turning safer
What’s happening?
An upgrade to help drivers safely exit Canterbury Drive onto The Grove Way.
Why?
Current delays at this intersection often lead to risky driver behaviour.
When?
Planning and design are underway, with construction to expected to start in mid-to-late 2025
How will this help?
- A widened centre median will make right turns easier and safer.
- Road widening and footpath realignment will improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety.
- New pedestrian refuges and ramps will enhance accessibility for foot traffic.
All the details: The Grove Way & Canterbury Drive upgrade
4. The Grove Way and Green Valley Drive: better access from Salisbury Heights
What’s happening?
The junction of The Grove Way and Green Valley Drive will be upgraded to improve access onto The Grove Way.
Why?
The current configuration of the intersection means that vehicles turning right from Green Valley Drive onto The Grove Way experience delays which can create congestion and result in unsafe driver behaviours. It’s a busy intersection, used by 36,700 vehicles per day.
When?
Planning work for the upgrade is currently underway.
How will this help?
- Widening of the centre median will make turning right from Green Valley Drive easier.
- Road widening and realignment of footpath will accommodate a wider centre median, making the road safer.
- A new pedestrian refuge and pram ramps on The Grove Way and Green Valley Drive will improve safety for pedestrians.
All the details: The Grove Way and Green Valley Drive, Salisbury Heights upgrade
5. Curtis Road and Heaslip Road: A new roundabout for Angle Vale
What’s happening?
A $30 million dual-lane roundabout will replace the existing intersection at Curtis Road and Heaslip Road.
Why?
This intersection has been identified as a high-risk area, with frequent crashes and increasing congestion due to local housing developments.
When?
Construction is expected to begin this year.
How will this help?
- A dual-lane roundabout will reduce the risk of severe crashes.
- Better traffic flow will make peak-hour commutes easier.
- The infrastructure improvement will support Angle Vale’s growing population.
All the details: Heaslip Road and Curtis Road intersection upgrade
6. John Rice Avenue and Haydown Road: Better traffic flow in Elizabeth Vale
What’s happening?
New traffic lights and a dedicated right-turn lane have been installed at this junction to make it safer and more efficient.
Why?
This upgrade will reduce congestion and improve pedestrian safety in a high-traffic area, particularly during school pick-up and drop-off times.
When?
Work has now been completed.
How will this help?
- Traffic lights will help regulate traffic and reduce wait times.
- A dedicated right-turn lane onto Haydown Road will improve flow for vehicles.
- Upgraded LED lighting will enhance visibility at night.
- A new kerb and gutter system will improve drainage and road quality.
All the details: John Rice Avenue and Haydown Road upgrade
The big picture: Why this all matters
These upgrades are designed to make northern suburbs roads safer, more efficient, and better suited for the region’s growth.
Once completed, the benefits will include:
- Less congestion and shorter commute times.
- Safer roads for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
- Improved access for growing communities.
Plan ahead and stay informed
During major works, every effort will be made to minimise impacts, including traffic restrictions, however it is likely that there will be some lane and speed restrictions in place. If you’re commuting (and your work allows), leave a little earlier or later to dodge peak congestion.
Stay updated on road closures and detours with:
- Traffic SA – Live updates on closures and delays.
- Department for Infrastructure and Transport – Project details and timelines.
- Google Maps and Waze – Real-time traffic conditions and detour suggestions.
This is the second part of a three-part series on major road upgrades happening in 2025. Read our round-up of Adelaide Hills roadworks here, and keep an eye out for the next instalment, where we’ll cover the biggest projects shaping South Australia’s roads for the future.
