Bridge across two divides
THE FIRST sod was turned in Wynberg yesterday for the construction of a R130 million pedestrian and cycling bridge over the M1 North at the Grayston interchange.
The architecture of the bridge is similar to the Nelson Mandela Bridge in Braamfontein.
Speaking at the launch, City of Joburg member of the mayoral committee responsible for transport Christine Walters said the bridge was part of a 5km dedicated cycling and walking path from the heart of Alexandra to the Sandton CBD.
It is estimated that about 10 000 people a day either walk or cycle between the two areas.
The bridge will also link to the Rea Vaya route and stations, which will assist with public transport needs in that part of the city.
Construction started on Sunday and should be complete by October next year, said Walters.
Work on sidewalks and cycle lanes, linking the bridge to Alex, started in June last year and is well under way.
“Safety has been an important priority in the design of the bridge. It will have 3mwide walkways separated by barriers from vehicle lanes, once reaching the road. Concrete bollards will be utilised to prevent access by private vehicles and taxis,” she said.
Street lighting, benches, hawker stalls and CCTV cameras will be strategically positioned along the route. Energy-efficient and green building methods are being use, including solar-powered LED lights.
Trees and shrubs that require low maintenance will be planted.
The council is also investigating methods to formalise the management of the overall safety of the project.
Walters appealed to motorists to be patient during construction.
“We understand that construction is causing traffic congestion, but, ultimately, when complete, there will be fewer cars on the roads as residents start walking and cycling instead of using vehicles and taxis.
“The bridge will provide safe access from Sandton and will literally bridge the gap between the two communities of opposite economic backgrounds while creating a visual gateway into the economic hub of our community, which is Sandton,” she said.
The dedicated walking and cycling path starts at Number 23 Square in Alex, follows Roosevelt Street, Watt Street, over Louis Botha Avenue, along Rautenbach Street onto the new bridge across the M1 alongside the existing Grayston interchange, along Grayston Drive, onto Katherine and Linden streets, into Maude Street and ending on the corner of Maude and 5th streets.
A new Melrose Arch-style development is being planned in Watt Street to provide accommodation, retail and office space in one place so people will not have to use transport to shop and work.