THE installation of two new overtaking lanes on the Lincoln Highway is hoped to be achieved by the end of the year, yet some hold concerns for a possible overlap with the next harvest.
The Department for Transport and Infrastructure said harvest was taken into consideration, when more trucks will be on the roads.
"The timing of harvest has been taken into consideration, to minimise impacts as much as practicably possible," a spokesperson said.
"While all works on both overtaking lanes are expected to be completed by the end of the year, it's important to note that the road remains open to traffic with one lane in each direction.
"Subject to weather, the southbound overtaking lane near Schramms Road, south of the town of Tumby Bay, is scheduled to be opened to traffic by the end of October 2021. The northbound overtaking lane near the town of Louth Bay is scheduled to be opened to traffic in December 2021."
Quinn Transport owner Rodney Quinn said while it was great to see upgrades on Eyre Peninsula roads, he will be "greatly concerned" if the overtaking lanes are not finished by harvest.
"They are spending huge amounts of money on roads so we can't really grizzle, but as an industry we would be greatly concerned if the outcome, if it is not programmed to be finished by the end of October...it just has to be.
"Last harvest was a light harvest and most farmers would have had sufficient time to take their trucks down to Lincoln.
"Now, given a bit better year and a better outlook...I would be very confident that there is 10 to 15 per cent more acreage going in."
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He said as people had reduced sheep numbers in recent years they were now committing to sowing more crops which would result in more grain come harvest time, and increased traffic.
"Everything is pointing to a little bit more tonnage and all around it looks encouraging, so we really need the highway to open up for increased traffic," he said.
Mr Quinn said aside from the overtaking lanes, upgrades to the Tod Highway and in particular the Cummins turnoff to Flinders Highway was "absolutely critical" to cater to trucks and increase safety.
Member for Flinders Peter Treloar said the lanes "should be completed near or on schedule".
"One lane each way will remain open during construction, so it shouldn't hold up traffic...this is particularly important as we approach harvest," he said.
"I for one can't wait to drive this stretch of road once the overtaking lanes are completed. It will be a safer and more efficient trip for locals and tourists."
DTI said the majority of the earthworks and drainage was complete, with remaining works including bitumen surfacing, the installation of a safety barrier, line marking, and signage.
