Gauteng Premier David Makhura together with Gauteng Roads and Transport (GPDRT) MEC Jacob Mamabolo hyped up October Transport Month when they handed over a certificate of completion for the rehabilitated R24 road in Magaliesburg CBD to the municipality.
The much-awaited certificate was presented to Mogale City and West Rand District Municipality executive mayors Francis Makgatho and Dennis Thabe respectively, followed by a symbolic ribbon cutting by the premier. Shoppers from the nearby Magalies Mall and residents flocked to the R24 to witness the official opening.
According to the MEC’s office, the R4.7million project fully funded by GPDRT, forms part of Gauteng Provincial Government’s Smart Mobility Programme envisaged to stimulate investment and growth, initiate new economic sectors, and transform the connection of rural communities to urban centres around the province.
Addressing residents, stakeholders, and other attendees, the premier said the rehabilitated road will provide access to economic and social opportunities to the Magaliesburg community and improve the mobility of people, freight and services in the province while improving vehicle accessibility to various parts of the province. “By doing all of this work, we are delivering on the commitment made to the people of Gauteng that a lot of work will be done to upgrade and maintain our key road networks”.
The approximately six-week rehabilitation project commenced on 15 June 2021 and projected to be complete by 20 July 2021 sailed through with minimal disruption and was completed slightly ahead of time.
Part of the rehabilitated road work included upgrade of storm water pipes from 300mm to 600mm and kerb inlets, installation of sub surface drains as well as a 200mm drainage layer. The pavement structure was rebuilt and strengthened in addition to heavy duty road repairs, resurfacing and road markings on the section of the road between Wimpy and the bridge.
The project also yielded job opportunities for Ward 31 locals, whilst security services were provided by a local security company. Moreover, SMMEs also benefited as some material was procured from local suppliers and only specialized materials acquired through larger suppliers.
The R24 has in the past experienced flooding during heavy rains and high traffic volumes resulting in congestions during peak morning and afternoon hours. The day culminated with both executive mayors accompanying the Premier and MEC in a visit to the community of Orient Hills where newly installed electricity was switched on last week.