FERNDALE – The reconstruction of the bridge on Cork Avenue in Ferndale was scheduled to commence in February and completed by the end of April this year.
Johannesburg Roads Agency advised motorists to use alternative routes as the road was closed towards the end of December last year.
“The bridge was closed off with concrete barriers to prevent use as the structural integrity is compromised and poses a direct risk to users. The Metro police will be enforcing compliance of this closure,” said the agency’s spokesperson, Bertha Peters-Scheepers.
The construction of this bridge, which has been deteriorating for the past two years, was estimated to cost in the region of R4 million.
It was established that some motorists were using the road despite the road closure signage and concrete barriers. Bryanfern Residents Association initially put up plastic barriers on the road to warn motorists about the state of the bridge.
Peters-Scheepers said the closure of roads and bridges were communicated to the public by displaying the necessary road signs to inform pedestrians and commuters to be vigilant of the changes and exercise caution.
“We endeavour to ensure public safety by communicating the necessary road and bridge closures due to regular, ad hoc maintenance, repairs and new infrastructural projects,” she said.
Ward 104 councillor Mike Wood appealed to motorists and residents to be patient as the reconstruction of the bridge would take some time.
“The residents association has been very helpful and it was through their initiative that the plastic barriers were put up before the City’s entity put up the concrete barriers,” he said.
Details: Johannesburg Roads Agency, 0860 562 874.
Bridge on the brink of collapse
UPDATE: JRA to repair the bridge during this financial year
