Motorists’ negative feedback about traffic lights at the Harper Road Bridge network now raises the question of “where do we go from here?”
Despite the majority of drivers objecting to the traffic lights, several everyday bystanders of the bridge network see the traffic lights as a good solution.
Rhyme Nelson, who arrives at the bridge every weekday morning, said the traffic lights are a better traffic control option.
“The installation of the traffic lights definitely helps the traffic flow,” said Rhyme.
Rhyme said he previously often witnessed a long queue of vehicles down Concorde Road.
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Cornel Mathebela and Xolani Mafa – they work close to the Harper Bridge – said the volume of traffic increases during peak times.
Cornel said traffic backs up mostly from 7am, and shortly after 8am as well as from 4.30pm to 5pm.
“Before the traffic lights, there were not enough yield signs, which caused collisions,” said Cornel.
Xolani said there definitely is a delay on the roads since the traffic lights were installed, but that it is much safer.
The NEWS timed the duration of a drive through the Harper Road Bridge network at a peak time in the morning.
Also read: Bridge is an accident waiting to happen
The drive started at 7.30am on Concorde Road East, turning left into Harper Road, and then around the bridge, ending at the Riley Road, Sasol Garage.
The time recorded going through the bridge network resulted in one minute and 41 seconds.
Ward 20 Clr Jill Humphreys said she has requested that the traffic lights be set on caution for one hour during the morning and afternoon in peak time traffic.
“To manage this, there needs to be additional road painting, signage and EMPD monitoring,” said Humphreys.
