JRA needs over R1 billion to fix ageing infrastructure across the city
The West Road bridge in Greymont has been unusable for almost five years, but work is due to start imminently.
Five years after it was closed off to motorists in October 2018, repair work on the Greymont bridge on West Road has still not commenced.
Work is expected to begin on September 25, with the project completion date set for May 2024.
Operations manager for Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) Bertha Peters-Scheepers said, “There are a number of factors that have impacted the delayed implementation of the rehabilitation project. This includes the termination of a consultant’s services and budget considerations.
“JRA has a backlog of ageing infrastructure in need of attention. Of these, 68 high-priority bridges require over R1 billion to rehabilitate.”
Priority is given to the most critical structures and where life and property may be impacted. Consequently, as budgets are allocated, we work through the priority list.
Greymont resident Jana Arlow said that the damage has escalated over the years. “It is so much more damaged now than it was as the infrastructure under it has also collapsed. I live right next to the area and after each rainfall more and more ground is eroded. I hope the intended works will run to schedule as we look forward to having this dangerous element out our area.”
Another resident, Kyle Jacobs said, “I have noted that JRA said that they have made progress and while this is welcomed we would still like to see tangible progress being made. The bridge does pose a safety hazard but also that it is no longer in service is an inconvenience for many. I hope that work can begin on the bridge as soon as possible and that JRA continue to consult with the community.”
Ward 86 councillor Chantelle Fourie-Shawe said, “It appears as if procedural progress is being made. It is concerning that updates on the bridge were not communicated to myself or to the community.
“In October 2022, another contractor was appointed to conduct engineering studies, including inspection, review, documentation, procurement, and contract administration.”
“I urge the JRA to ensure they temporarily safeguard the bridge and surrounding infrastructure according to road safety legislation until this project is completed.”
Fourie-Shawe said she would engage JRA once the geotechnical investigations were completed, which Peters-Scheepers hoped would be on May 8.
Expected timelines
1) Geotechnical investigations: February 13 – May 8
2) Environmental authorisations: March 6 – August 31
3) Completion of detailed designs: May 8 – June 5
4) Documentation and contract administration: June 12 – July 17
5) Project implementation and construction: September 25, 2023 – May 25, 2024.
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