Today, I officially launched the much anticipated R140 Million rehabilitation project of the M1, Oxford and Federation bridges as they reach completion, the launch also marks the beginning of Transport Month.
The M1 Oxford and Federation bridges structural rehabilitation project was launched in November 2015 and combined with the other M1 Double Decker Rehabilitation project is estimated at R210 million, the largest construction project, to date, carried out by the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA). The project was initially scheduled for completion in September 2016, however, geotechnical complications resulted in an extension of the scope of the works, which accounts for the remainder of the extended construction period.
As we launch the completion of the M1 project and kick-start Transport Month, I would like to thank all road users for their patience during the 24-month three-phase rehabilitation of the M1, Oxford and Federation bridges project. Many had adjusted their travel times to accommodate the traffic deviations and road closures. It has been a long journey to reach completion however, the major construction and structural rehabilitation was a critical undertaking to ensure the safety of all road users.
The M1 freeway will be reopened to three lane traffic in two directions, in a phased approach:
- M1 northbound 3 lanes will reopen on Monday 9 October.
- M1 southbound 3 lanes will reopen on Monday 16 October.
- M1 Oxford road off ramp will remain closed at this stage.
Works on the M1 Oxford and Federation Bridge included the replacement of the 3km stormwater drainage system between Rockridge bridge and Federation road bridge, as well as on Oxford and Federation roads below the freeway and re-construction of the 2km of dual carriageway between Rockridge and Federation roads. To improve safety, new parapet walls and guard rails have been installed. Better graded crushed rock has been used on the roads to improve stormwater drainage in addition to the new subsoil drainage system.
As part of the Expanded Public Works Programme, 9 SMME’s and 67 local labourers were employed during the project. The financial investment amounts to R13 million allocated to SMME’s and R3 million on local labour expenditure.
As we embark on preparation for the rainy season, work on the Double Decker bridge which is a separate project has been temporarily put on hold as the contract has drawn to an end. The JRA is prioritising the appointment of a contractor and consultant to finalise the project.
Intrinsic to Johannesburg economic growth and development is a strengthened road network. Investment in the transport network therefore, has wider and far reaching impact and consequences to the economy as key influencer to urban and regional development, spatial planning, and inter-and intra-regional transport sector. It also heightens the attractiveness of the city to live, work and visit as it fosters an interconnected cosmopolitan culture and economic dynamism of its residents.
The historical underinvestment in the city’s aging road network poses serious concerns and a staggered approach has now been adopted to address deterioration of prioritised roads, bridges and stormwater drainage across the city. In an effort to decrease the city’s carbon footprint and congestion, the city aims to roll out a mass integrated transport system in the long term, in addition to Metro Bus service, the Bus Rapid Transport routes will ensure communities are integrated and more inclusive.
While arterial routes remain a priority, the City is simultaneously investing in under-developed areas to ensure access. These projects will in turn provide short-medium term employment opportunities to local communities and separately attract more private investments to the region.
As part of JRA’s 2017/2018 road surfacing and reconstruction programme, R247 million has been prioritised towards addressing deteriorated roads across the city’s network.
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.