June 1, 2005
By Tabisa Mntengwana
ROADS around Johannesburg are about to get a revamp, with the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) planning to repair more than 1 000 potholes on roads across the city.
The agency is also planning to construct new roads in Ivory Park and Kaalfontein, as well as painting new road markings in the two areas. About 50 new roads will be constructed around the city in areas such as Mofolo, Dobsonville, Orange Farm, parts of Stretford, Mapetla, Phiri and Alexandra.
In most of these areas, construction is expected to be complete by the end of December.
These projects form part of the JRA's business plan, announced in the City Council on 26 May by mayoral committee member for community development, roads and parks, Councillor Christine Walters.
The business plan outlines the main focus of the agency and identifies how it intends to spend its R200-million budget. The JRA is responsible for the design, maintenance, repair and development of Johannesburg's road network and storm water infrastructure.
Walters told the committee that the JRA will continue financing itself from City funds, parking meters and bulk infrastructure control levies and government development programmes.
"We will also work on reducing claims by motorists to the JRA by fixing every street light that is not working, filling potholes and clearing storm water drainages."
Road upgrades
Key areas are Ivory Park and Kaalfontein, where the JRA will build new roads and walkways. Another major project is the reconstruction of the bridge over Kumalo Road in Soweto.
"I must say roads and parks in Soweto are looking good, I am impressed," Walters said, "but we need to look closely at making Ivory Park and Kaalfontein better."
The agency plans to construct stopping areas with shelters for public transport users around the city, including ablution facilities and good lighting.
Problems include traffic congestion and potholes. According to Walters, the JRA, together with the City's other utilities and agencies, would have to work together to find ways to reduce traffic snarl-ups.
Traffic congestion is particularly noticeable along the main roads used by taxis and school buses, especially along the Soweto Highway and Booysens Reserve.
According to the business plan, potholes in Florida Lake, Roodepoort, Creswell, Benrose, Bosmont and Selwyn are to be filled.
Road safety
The agency also plans to hold road safety sessions for schools in conjunction with its work with various schools' scholar patrols.
The JRA currently works with 40 schools on traffic calming measures outside school premises and will be expanding its work, building speed humps outside schools, ensuring the roads are clearly marked and that street names near schools are visible.
Areas targeted include David Street, Jones Street and Byvanger Street in Meredale, and all the roads in Pimville, Naledi, Phiri and Jabulani.
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