Johannesburg’s Ellis Park precinct has undergone a remarkable transformation with a massive clean-up, infrastructure upgrades, and improved transport services, uniting the city in preparation for an epic Springboks rugby showdown while inspiring a lasting spirit of community renewal.
Johannesburg, South Africa (29 August 2024) – There’s something special about a Springboks match that brings South Africans together like nothing else. Whether it’s the echo of the national anthem filling the stadium or the collective roar when the Bokke scores a try, these moments remind us that we truly are “Stronger Together.” And this Saturday, as Johannesburg gears up to host an epic rugby clash at the iconic Emirates Airline Park, there’s more than just pride at stake. The occasion has sparked a massive clean-up and revitalisation operation that will make every Joburger beam with pride.
In the Urban East area of Johannesburg, a dramatic transformation is underway, breathing new life into the Ellis Park precinct. Inspired by the approaching rugby showdown, the City of Joburg, together with the Jozi My Jozi movement, Lions Rugby Union, stadium management, and several corporate partners, has taken action to rejuvenate this historic area. Under the leadership of Stephen du Preez from LocalAbode, who is also the Jozi My Jozi project lead for the Urban East District Alliance, teams are hard at work.
“It’s wonderful to see how everyone has come on board to give this area its much-needed facelift,” says du Preez.
From repairing potholes and fixing pavements to increasing street cleaning and law enforcement presence, the Ellis Park precinct is getting a complete makeover. The goal is simple but ambitious: to create a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for all who visit.
Infrastructure Upgrades That Shine
In preparation for the game, the Jozi My Jozi initiative has overseen the installation of more than 380 solar lights throughout the precinct, all set to be fully operational by game day. These lights are not just about illuminating the streets; they symbolise a brighter future for the area, ensuring safety and visibility for both residents and visitors.
Have never imagined I would see this bridge so spotless in my lifetime. It should never be about major events but our City must be maintained and kept to this standard always! @CityofJoburgZA pic.twitter.com/8aApDRJjgs
— Mlimandlela Ndamase (@PrinceNdamase) August 27, 2024
But that’s not all. Renowned landscaper Greg Straw and his team have been working tirelessly to beautify the precinct, adding a splash of colour and life to the urban landscape with creative street art and green spaces. This isn’t just a quick spruce-up; it’s about restoring pride in the Ellis Park precinct and creating a lasting impression on the thousands of rugby fans arriving on Saturday, as well as millions more watching from around the world.
Transport Made Easy: A Seamless Journey to the Stadium
Getting to the stadium has never been easier! The city’s transport services have come together in a display of true collaboration to ensure a smooth ride for all fans. Du Preez is particularly excited about the new partnership between Gautrain and PRASA.
“Any match ticketholder making use of the Gautrain to Park Station will be able to board a PRASA train from Park Station to Ellis Park Station for free – and the trip takes just 3 minutes, with a train departing every 15 minutes between 11:00 and 23:00 on match day.”
This initiative goes beyond convenience; it shows how effective collaboration can improve the fan experience and ease traffic congestion around the stadium.
Catch the quick 3-minute train ride on the #PeoplesTrain from Park Station to Ellis Park Station to Emirates Airline Park to watch the Springboks vs New Zealand on the 31st of August.
The train ride is free for valid match ticket holders. #PRASA #ThePeoplesTrain #RailXperience pic.twitter.com/X0nGF1ryc2
— PRASA Group (@PRASA_Group) August 25, 2024
Additionally, fans can take advantage of ‘Park and Ride’ services available from 13 shopping malls across the city. E-hailing services also have designated drop-off and pick-up zones around the stadium, ensuring everyone gets to the game with minimal hassle and maximum excitement.
A Hopeful Future: Leading by Example
While the excitement is palpable ahead of the big game, there is a deeper hope that this momentum doesn’t stop once the final whistle blows.
“It’s so encouraging to see what is possible when so many different and diverse people work together towards a common goal,” comments du Preez.
The goal is not just to impress for a day but to set a standard for urban renewal and inspire other parts of the city to follow suit.
By maintaining this newly revitalised area, the City of Joburg and its partners hope to encourage more initiatives prioritising safety, cleanliness, and community pride. As Irene Mafune, Regional Director of CRUM Region F, pointed out, the precinct’s partnerships with educational institutions and other stakeholders are a critical factor in its ongoing success.
The way Ellis Park and the wider East of Joburg’s been spring-cleaned and rejuvenated for Saturday’s big game reminds me of the catalytic effects of the Soccer World Cup. Long may it last! The partnerships are an example of how to fix our city. 🌆 pic.twitter.com/G2dqIyGubj
— Ferial Haffajee (@ferialhaffajee) August 26, 2024
As we all don our green and gold and prepare to cheer the Bokke to victory, there’s a sense that something truly remarkable is happening in the heart of Johannesburg. This clean-up and revitalisation effort is more than just a cosmetic change; it reflects a city coming together, rolling up its sleeves, and making things happen.
While the Ellis Park precinct will undoubtedly be buzzing on 31 August, the real magic will be in the days and months that follow. It’s about becoming active citizens and working together to ensure that this area—and many others like it—remains clean, safe, and vibrant. And if we can do that, the future of Jozi looks brighter than ever. Here’s to hoping that this spirit of unity and collaboration spreads throughout our beautiful city, reminding us all that we are indeed stronger together.
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