Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) is investing R16,4-million in the construction of a pedestrian bridge in Diepsloot, to safe-guard residents crossing the Jukskei River during flooding. To commemorate the construction of the bridge, Mayor Herman Mashaba held a sod turning ceremony at the site of development.
The erection of the bridge forms part of the City’s commitment to improve public safety, stormwater management and impact of urban and residential flooding. The project has been accelerated for construction, as part of JRA’s 2017/2018 infrastructural projects.
Mayor Mashaba said: “As we embark on the new financial year, the City is honouring its commitment to residents of Diepsloot by fast tracking the bridge’s construction. We are faithful to the development of the poor through the provision of and access to services. In our efforts to improve Johannesburg’s road network and stormwater infrastructure, public safety is paramount and will be prioritised. The erection of this pedestrian bridge will play a significant role in the lives of local residents by linking Diepsloot’s Extension 1 to Extension 2, with safe passage during times of heavy rains and flash flooding, and most importantly it aims to prevent accidental deaths and injury.”
Mashaba said the construction of Diepsloot pedestrian bridge is reflective of the City’s commitment to enhancing quality of life by improving services and fostering caring, safe and secure communities whilst simultaneously being responsive to environmental factors. The project is expected to be completed in July 2018. The Diepsloot community will also benefit from the construction contract which requires a percentage of local labour participation. Labour contracted for the duration of the project will be provided with skilled and semi-skilled work opportunities and training. A contractor has been appointed and a public briefing was held on 17 June 2017 to keep the community abreast of developments.
Johannesburg’s Integrated Development Plan reinforces the City’s commitment towards building a city that advances freedom, fairness and equal opportunity. In support of this, JRA has pledged R1.2 billion towards the upgrade of gravel roads over the next three years. Disadvantaged communities that have been scheduled for development include Orange Farm, Ivory Park, Diepsloot, Doornkop, Braamfischerville, Tshepisong, Lawley, Protea South, Drieziek, Poortjie, Slovoville, Kaalfontein and Mayibuye.
