BRT bus drivers on strike and they close down Albertina Sisulu road, they say they don’t want the current management they have now. Picture: Bhekikhaya Mabaso
The City of Johannesburg’s Transport Department said it is committed to improving its transportation systems in alignment with the agenda to make public transport and Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) the mode of choice by 2040.
As the infrastructure arm of the City, the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) plays a vital role in the development of quality NMT infrastructure which is critical in facilitating safe and accessible NMT use and unlocking NMT’s potential to become a feasible and sustainable transport mode in the City.
NMT includes walking, cycling, skateboarding, and other small-wheeled innovations. In cities, pedestrians and cyclists typically make up the largest share of NMT users. JDA said NMT has been prioritised in urban areas to achieve multiple objectives including reducing congestion, pollution and carbon emissions, and improving safety, accessibility and quality of life.
In line with the City’s commitment to creating liveable, sustainable urban environments in which residents navigate safely and efficiently using public and non-motorised transport, the JDA said it is implementing the Tshepisong and Cosmo City NMT projects in Region C.
“The Cosmo City and Tshepisong NMT infrastructure projects are an example of the City’s commitment to promoting high-quality public transport networks where NMT is a basic provision in all transport planning and infrastructure projects,” said JDA CEO Themba Mathibe.
He further said: “The projects align with the JDA’s objective to support the growth and development of strategic nodes into high quality, investor friendly and sustainable urban environments”,
He said Cosmo City is Region C’s major development and has become a huge mixed-income development northwest of Joburg.
Mathibe said the Cosmo City NMT project is aimed at improving NMT infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists and the improvement of Public Transport facilities through the: provision of adequate walkway, provision of adequate street lighting, addressing localised stormwater issues and provision of Universal Access
The project site is on South Africa Drive, in Cosmo City, in Ward 100 of Region C of the City of Johannesburg. The area of the proposed works spans about 3.5km within the bounds of Malibongwe Drive and Russia Avenue.
The scope of work includes the construction of paved sidewalks, construction of asphalt sidewalks, construction of mini-bus laybys, construction of bus stop shelters, landscaping and general public environmental upgrades
JDA said in line with the City’s Complete Streets approach, Tshepisong NMT aims to enhance pedestrian routes along roads connecting to and from the Tshepisong Public Transport facilities, ensuring they meet the necessary standards for safety and accessibility.
JDA said the location is in Tshepisong, Ward 128, north-west of Soweto. The area of the proposed works spans mainly three roads which is the R558 to the East, Kagiso Road to the West and the R41 which is just north of the Tshepisong area.
The scope of works is for the construction of sidewalks and includes relocation, raising or lowering of existing services, earthworks, layer works for new sidewalks, installation of universal access ramps and pedestrian crossings, remedial work to existing storm water services where required, provision and construction of block paved sidewalks, construction of precast kerbing as well cast in-situ concrete edge beams and channels and landscaping
Mathibe said one of the key objectives of the JDA is to undertake the Cosmo City and Tshepisong NMT infrastructure projects using labour-intensive approaches to provide cost-effective short-term employment opportunities to unskilled and semi-skilled workers. Local emerging subcontractors have been appointed for the execution of the portions of the works in the NMT infrastructure project.
Meanwhile, earlier this month JDA said it has been making steady progress on the construction of the Bertrams Multipurpose Centre.
This R220 million, state-of-the-art facility is located in Bertrams, one of Johannesburg's oldest suburbs. The facility is set to become a landmark hub for social development and community engagement in Region F, marking a significant milestone in the redevelopment of the area.
The entity said the multipurpose centre, situated on the eastern edge of the Inner-City Central Business District, is designed to offer a range of services aimed at uplifting and empowering local residents.
JDA said the eco-conscious building will house a variety of facilities, including a community hall, youth and skills development areas, a women’s empowerment centre, and support for senior citizens.
In addition, it will feature a basketball court, greenhouses, childcare facilities, and spaces dedicated to early childhood development.
The JDA has prioritised sustainability in the design of the multipurpose centre, ensuring that the facility incorporates green elements that promote energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint.
The entity said the building will feature ample daylight through extensive glazing, along with vertical gardens and a street-facing agricultural space with hydroponic and aquaponic training facilities.
JDA said these initiatives are part of the City of Joburg’s commitment to sustainable urban development and align with the Joburg 2040 Growth and Development Strategy.
Strategically located near public transport services such as Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transport (BRT), buses, and taxi routes, JDA said the multipurpose centre will be easily accessible to residents from surrounding areas like Jeppestown, Troyeville, New Doornfontein, and Kensington.
The entity said the project also forms part of the larger revitalization of the Greater Ellis Park sports precinct, aimed at creating an interconnected hub for sports, education, and residential activities.
JDA said through this project, the City is meeting its 30% local spend policy by involving Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and creating employment opportunities for local contractors.
It revealed that to date, eight SMMEs and 25 local workers have been appointed to support the project.
“The JDA remains committed to delivering on its vision of a competitive, resilient Johannesburg. The Bertrams Multipurpose Centre is a key part of this vision, bringing valuable social infrastructure to the heart of the community,” said Mathibe.
He said this facility is more than just a building — it’s a vital investment in the community, promoting local economic growth and social development.
“The JDA is focused on building infrastructure that enhances the quality of life for all Joburg residents, and this project is a prime example of that vision in action,” he said.
Saturday Star
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