Mayor Herman Mashaba has officially launched the much anticipated R674 million Sandton public transport loop.
This upgrade will not only mean that traffic congestion will decline within the Sandton precinct but access to one of the City’s largest economic hubs will be improved for residents in Alexandra and the rest of the City.
For over two years the City has been active in and around Sandton to improve sidewalks, build two new bridges over the M1 to improve connectivity between Alexandra and Sandton, paving the way for the introduction of Rea Vaya services as well as constructing a dedicated public transport loop around the Sandton CBD.
The revitalization of road space through infrastructural investment in Sandton is critical to economic growth of the City.
The dedicated public transport lane will be operationalized in partnership with the Gautrain; PUTCO; Metrobus and mini bus taxis to improve access for public transport, reduce travelling times and making it more convenient to travel.
This dedicated public transport lane, called the Sandton Public Transport Loop is along Rivonia Road, Fredman Drive and 5th Street and includes stops and shelters with information for passengers as to which bus stops where. It will start operations on 18th September and in the initial period will be seeking public feedback on whether it is meeting its intended objective.”
The launch of the Sandton Public Transport Loop, a Bridge over the M1 at Lees Street and other road infrastructure projects, are all part of the Sandton Transport Master Plan that is being implemented in partnership with Sandton Central Management District.
It is also forms part of the introduction of the next phase of Rea Vaya to Alexandra, Sandton and Midrand through Louis Botha Avenue from Hillbrow and improved public transport facilities in the area that includes the following:
- 17 additional new Rea Vaya stations;
- A public transport interchange next to Pan Africa in Alexandra;
- Upgrading of surrounding roads, sidewalks and intersections.
Since the inception of the road infrastructure projects, the City of Johannesburg has spent approximately R226 million in the Sandton/Alexandra area and created many jobs.
The numbers of commuters who are travelling to Sandton from different parts of the City of Johannesburg including areas like Alexandra, Soweto, Orange Farm, Ivory Park, Diesploot and other areas has increased by 3.4% per annum and is likely to continue to increase by more than 4% per annum.
“Through these infrastructure upgrades, we are improving our residents’ access to economic opportunities and a better life for themselves and their loved ones.”
“The decades-long neglect of infrastructure maintenance means there is still a huge mountain to climb to effectively address our City’s ageing roads and traffic challenges. However, this administration is committed to addressing the City’s challenges for the benefit of all our residents.”
by 