UPDATE: Ekurhuleni says it will install lights, pending the budget

The Ekurhuleni metro has made a U-turn on its decision not to install a traffic calming measure at the crossing near the Benoni Lake Club on Lakefield Avenue.

This follows the club’s recent request to have traffic-calming measures in the form of flashing lights installed to reduce accidents on this stretch of road.

According to metro spokesperson Zweli Dlamini, the city has re-evaluated the request for these flashing warning lights.

“We are glad to confirm that we have no objection to the installation of flashing units on both approaches to the existing pedestrian crossing.

“However, due to our financial situation, we will not be able to implement this request in the current financial year but will gladly do so once the financial resources are available in the future.”

Dlamini said the Department of Roads and Transport is in the process of obtaining a quotation for the installation of the flasher signals (poles, cables, flashing unit and power supply).

“However, if the Benoni Lake Club want to pursue this matter further and is willing to install the flashing units at their cost, they can approach the city to explore available options and a way forward with regards to finalisation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and an application for a wayleave, energy supply, and more.”

Dlamini added that the department has previously installed speed limit signs and marked and re-painted the pedestrian crossings as and when required.

Benoni City Times published the club’s concerns in the issue dated May 31, in which club management said they’ve witnessed many vehicle accidents on Lakefield Avenue and for years they’ve tried to secure a traffic calming measure at the pedestrian crossing.

Also Read: Club ‘teed’ off with speeding drivers

Also Read: Metro says ‘no’ to Benoni Lake Club’s request for traffic lights