Alberton Boulevard: Soon to be history
After six years of neglect, Alberton Boulevard has devolved into a crime-ridden hotspot, sparking outrage among frustrated residents and business owners
The once-thriving Alberton Boulevard has become a hot spot for crime, home to the homeless, shows definite decay and leaves business owners and residents desperate for change.
Four businesses have been robbed in the past three months, and the community is at a loss for what to do.
According to a Clr Tim Denny, the non-working streetlights have turned the area into a dark alleyway, perfect for criminals to lurk and strike.
He said homeless people, drug addicts, and criminals have taken over, chasing away customers and investors.
WATCH: Intruder suspected to be trapped in the roof on Alberton Boulevard
Despite the EMPD’s efforts to clean up the area, the homeless returned and business owners left frustrated.
Toyota Alberton has already left, and more businesses are on the verge of departure.
Residents fear Alberton CBD will become the new Johannesburg Central, notorious for high crime rates.
“It is bad. Homeless people occupy the area, urinate and leave it smelling. They are chasing away customers,” said a local business owner who asked to remain anonymous.
Denny demands answers about the R200b investment promised by the mayor, and specifically how much will go towards reviving the Alberton CBD.
ALSO READ: Vision to rejuvenate Alberton Boulevard in the pipeline
“The community wants urgent action, not words. With Alberton Boulevard being a main entry point, its neglect may deter tourists and guests.
“Built in the late 1980s as a pedestrian-friendly zone, Alberton Boulevard has seen better days. Its structured figures and central road island are now overshadowed by crime and decay.
“The City of Ekurhuleni’s inaction has left the community feeling abandoned,” Denny said.
Alberton Record emailed the City of Ekurhuleni’s spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini on September 17 requesting comment.
His comment was: “We are well aware of the high crime rate in Alberton CBD and the matter is receiving high attention. The city sends out the EMPD to patrol in the Alberton CBD.”
Dlamini promised to get back to the Record regarding some of the concrete solutions proposed by the municipality to rejuvenate Alberton Boulevard.
ALSO READ: No hope for Alberton Boulevard
