A progress update has been provided by the contractor responsible for the the ongoing rehabilitation of Johanna Drive in Sonheuwel.

The update follows a community meeting held today (September 1), where concerns and suggestions regarding the project, traffic management and access were discussed.

According to the current construction programme, priming of the existing section of the road was scheduled to take place today, followed by tarring tomorrow and Thursday.

Rain forecast threatens tarring timeline

However, rain forecast for Friday could affect construction activities and potentially delay the programme.

Subject to the completion and condition of the work, both sides of the road are planned to be temporarily opened to traffic from Friday to Monday.

ALSO READ: Roadworks on Johanna Drive in Mbombela cause traffic congestion

During this period, the stop-and-go system is expected to be suspended.

Phase 2 construction to begin next week

From September 8, construction is scheduled to move to the other side of the road, with the stop-and-go system reinstated while work continues.

The second phase is expected to take between two and three weeks, after which the section will be primed and tarred.

Once both sides have been completed, the major roadworks are expected to be finished and normal traffic flow restored. However, motorists may still encounter smaller, temporary interventions while stormwater, drainage and other finishing works are completed.

Officials urge patience

Project officials stressed that the dates are based on the current construction programme and are not absolute guarantees.

Weather conditions, unforeseen site conditions, technical requirements, safety considerations and material or equipment-related issues could affect the schedule.

Another meeting is planned with nearby estates and Curro Nelspruit on Friday to discuss traffic management, co-ordination and communication during the remaining construction period.

Officials appealed to residents, businesses, parents and motorists for continued patience and co-operation, acknowledging the inconvenience caused by delays and restricted access.

They said the priority remains completing the project efficiently while ensuring that the road is delivered safely and to the required quality standards.

If the programme changes, the community will be informed as soon as reasonably possible, with officials urging residents and road users to continue engaging constructively throughout the remainder of the project.