The cost of the project is estimated to be R96 million and Power Construction was appointed as the contractor, while Bryanston-based WSP will act as consulting engineers.
The project is being funded by the department in conjunction with Steyn City developers.
Speaking at a public meeting on 17 June, MEC for the department, Ismail Vadi said there were some particular aspects of the project which had to be emphasised.
“This particular contract was awarded through a process jointly set up by our provincial treasury and the Department of Roads and Transport,” said Vadi.
“We used what is called an open tender system to award this project because we feel that all projects in excess of R50 million should go through this process.
“This means that we comply with the public finance management framework to ensure transparency, but there are also additional measures that are put in place to make sure that the process of decision making and awarding a contract is open to the public. All of this is independently audited.”
Vadi further explained that housing initiatives by private sector developers such as Steyn City were strongly supported by government, because it alleviated pressure for housing due to migration into the province.
“We estimate that about 20 000 people move into the province every month and they have to find somewhere to live. So these developments are supported, but the fact remains that they are developed by the private sector,” said Vadi.
“As with any development, there’s additional traffic flow and more traffic congestion which current infrastructure are unable to sustain, thus roads need to be upgraded at taxpayers’ expense. Therefore, it is only fair that private developers contribute to these upgrades.”
Vadi added that the department was truly grateful for Steyn City’s contribution. “They also made a similar contribution toward the upgrade of William Nicol Drive.”
The upgrades will fall under Ward 96, and councillor for the ward, Matome Mafokwane expressed his excitement for the project, and also appealed to local residents to be patient throughout the construction phase.
“Residents can expect a fair amount of delays which could result in frustration,” he said.
“I ask for them to please just bear with us because these upgrades are to benefit everyone in our community. We are making sure that the roads are wider, safer and more user-friendly for our commuters.”
Do you have queries regarding the Cedar Road upgrades? Let us know by sending an e-mail to fourwaysr@caxton.co.za
