Mayor launches R674 million public transport loop
JOBURG – The dedicated public transport lane will be operational in partnership with the Gautrain, Putco, Metrobus and mini bus taxis to improve access for public transport, reduce travelling times and making it more convenient to travel.
City of Johannesburg Executive Mayor Clr Herman Mashaba launched the R674-million Sandton public transport loop on Tuesday.
Mashaba said the upgrade will not only mean that traffic congestion will decline within the Sandton precinct but access to one of the city’s largest economic hubs will be improved for residents in the greater Johannesburg area.
“For over two years the city has been active in and around Sandton to improve its pavements. Two new bridges were built over the M1 to improve connectivity between Alexandra and Sandton, paving the way for the introduction of Rea Vaya services as well as the construction of a dedicated public transport loop around the Sandton CBD,” he said.
He said the revitalisation of road space through infrastructural investment in Sandton was critical to the economic growth of the city.
The dedicated public transport lane will be operational in partnership with the Gautrain, Putco, Metrobus and mini bus taxis to improve access to public transport, reduce travelling times and to make travel more convenient.
The Sandton Public Transport Loop is along Rivonia Road, Fredman Drive and 5th Street.
It includes stops and shelters which display information about various bus stops.
“It will start operations on September 18. During the initial period, public will be asked to provide feedback on whether it is meeting its intended objective,” he said.
“The launch of the public transport loop, a Bridge over the M1 at Lees Street and other road infrastructure projects are all part of the Sandton Transport Master Plan that is being implemented in partnership with Sandton’s Central Management District,” Mashaba said.
It is also forms part of the introduction of the next phase of Rea Vaya to Alexandra, Sandton and Midrand through Louis Botha Avenue from Hillbrow. Improved public transport facilities in the area include the following:
• 17 additional new Rea Vaya stations;
• A public transport interchange next to Pan Africa in Alexandra;
• Upgrading of surrounding roads, sidewalks and intersections.
The number of commuters travelling to Sandton from different parts of the City of Johannesburg increased by 3.4 per cent per annum and is likely to continue to increase by more than 4 per cent per annum.
“These infrastructure upgrades are improving our residents’ access to economic opportunities and a better life for themselves and their loved ones,” Mashaba said.
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