Having experienced firsthand the terror and uncertainty associated with driving on the Horrocks Highway interchange in Hewett, South Australia, I feel compelled to address the pressing need for its immediate upgrade. Over the past few years, this stretch of road has witnessed a disconcerting number of accidents, many of which could have been prevented with better infrastructure. Near misses have become an unsettling norm, putting the lives of road users and local residents at constant risk.

The current state of the Horrocks Highway interchange near Hewett is not only inconvenient but perilous. Narrow lanes, lack of proper signals, inadequate lighting, & high speed limits (80km/h) inappropriate for the residential area contribute to the hazardous conditions. The inclusion and increase of housing in both Roseworthy, Willaston and Hewett, the new Ambulance station, access to the Hewett Primary school and the new Guardian Childcare. Pulling into traffic from the residential area or onto Horrocks Highway from the main residential area of Hewett (Kestrel Rd); and pulling onto or off of the interchange ramps into 80km/h traffic is particularly hazardous. This area has rapidly developed, leading to increased traffic, yet the road infrastructure has not been adapted to meet this demand. School & public transport buses, trucks, machinery & construction heavy vehicles  and farming machinery frequent the area, increasing poor visibility and congestion at the intersections

We can no longer ignore the urgent safety needs of our community. An upgrade would not only facilitate smoother traffic flow but would also significantly reduce the risk of collisions and make the area safer for everyone. The solution is clear: widen the lanes, improve lighting and signage, implement better intersection controls & move the 80km/h signage towards Roseworthy, after the interchange. These changes would drastically reduce the current danger and make the Horrocks Highway interchange a safe route for all.

Your voice is crucial in making this change a reality. By signing this petition, you support the call for local authorities and the South Australian government to prioritize the upgrade of the Horrocks Highway interchange. Together, let's advocate for the safety and well-being of our community. Take action now and join us in this vital cause. Sign the petition and demand safety improvements today!

(Image credit: 7 News)