Johannesburg's Lilian Ngoyi Street rehabilitation project reaches 86% completion
It is detailed that thisninitiative, aimed at improving one of the city's critical commuter routes, has been a collaborative effort between the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) and local stakeholders.
Construction on this vital stretch, situated between Harrison and Kruis Streets, is being executed in two distinct phases. JRA officials have confirmed that the first phase is poised for completion by the end of August 2025. Residents and commuters alike have likely noticed the enhanced infrastructure, with the construction of new and reinforced tunnels completed alongside backfilling and compaction works.
Project specifics reveal that 60% of the ongoing work, which includes the construction of pavement layers and the installation of gas, heat, smoke detection, and ventilation systems, is on track. These systems will monitor gas levels in the tunnels, mitigating any potential gas-related risks in the future.
The entire rehabilitation effort boasts a projected budget of R192 million, with R64 million already invested in the first phase. Notably, the project has created opportunities for local enterprises, benefiting 27 Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs), and employing 38 general workers currently on site.
JRA CEO, Zweli Nyathi, lauded the contractors' performance amidst challenging weather conditions earlier this year, stating, 'The contractor has performed exceptionally well in ensuring that the projected timelines are met. Working closely with the JRA, a robust work plan was developed by extending the daily construction hours, including weekends to eliminate any possibilities of delays. Furthermore, pavement construction work is conducted during the evenings to minimise disruption to foot traffic and local businesses.'
The Executive Mayor of the City of Joburg, Dada Morero, also took to social media to express pride in the project's advancements, reaffirming: 'We are pleased to announce that the rehabilitation project on Lillian Ngoyi Street is nearing completion. The first phase is on track to be done by the end of August 2025.'
Once completed, Lilian Ngoyi Street, along with the impacted north-south routes such as Joubert, Rissik, and Eloff Streets, will reopen to traffic, enhancing accessibility for business and commuting activities.
Upon completion of the first phase in August 2025, Lilian Ngoyi Street and the surrounding north-south roads, including Joubert, Rissik, and Eloff Streets, will once again be open to traffic. The second phase will follow, set to begin in September 2025 and run until August 2026, aiming to rejuvenate an additional 1.8 kilometres of the street, extending to Ntemi Piliso and End Streets. This continued investment in infrastructure underscores the city's commitment to transforming Johannesburg into a more accessible and efficient urban environment.
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