Volunteers repaint faded road markings in Bredell

Members of the Community Rise Alliance (CRA) were back in action on May 3, continuing their community-led initiative to improve road safety by repainting faded and missing road markings.

The latest project focused on Bredell, where a small team of five volunteers successfully repainted nine stop streets in just five hours. Work was completed along 4th Road, with progress also made in 3rd Road.

ALSO READ: EMPD officers raise road safety and crime awareness at Birch Acres Mall

The group has already planned two additional paint projects for June, with two more scheduled for July.

According to CRA member Jana Putter, the initiative was driven by growing safety concerns linked to poor road visibility.

“Many stop streets in Bredell and Pomona have become difficult to see due to a lack of maintenance, creating unnecessary risks for motorists and pedestrians,” she said.

“After receiving overwhelming support during our first initiative, we decided to continue restoring visibility to every stop street possible.”

CRA said the second phase of the project ran more efficiently due to improved coordination, clearer role allocation and experience gained from the initial rollout.

Volunteers handled traffic control, preparation and painting, allowing the work to be completed safely and smoothly.

ALSO READ: CoE launches Easter Road safety campaign

The group emphasised the importance of visible road markings in improving safety for both motorists and pedestrians, particularly in areas where signage is worn or missing.

Clear stop lines, they said, help drivers reduce speed, stay alert and obey traffic rules, while also assisting pedestrians in identifying safer crossing points.

“Community involvement is the foundation of everything we do,” said CRA member Dylan.

“Real change only happens when residents, businesses and community members work together toward a shared goal.”

The group noted that managing traffic safely remained one of their biggest challenges, although lower Sunday traffic and improved control measures, such as cones, flags, and high-visibility marshals, helped the project run without incident.

Volunteers also received strong support from residents throughout the day, which the organisation said boosted morale.

CRA reiterated that their work is guided by the principle of community-driven action.

“Our goal is to continue restoring and improving road markings and other community projects in Bredell and Pomona,” said John.

ALSO READ: Road safety tips for the Easter weekend

“We are committed to tackling one issue at a time as support and resources allow.”

The organisation said it remains grateful for the ongoing support from residents and local businesses, including Bredell SPAR, Jayson’s Carpet Cleaning, Manny’s Hardware & Paints, and East Rand Plastics Pty Ltd, as well as volunteers and community members who contributed donations and encouragement during the project.

CRA added that its long-term goal is to continue building safer, cleaner and better-maintained neighbourhoods through consistent community participation and collaboration.