Effective solutions to address the ongoing traffic congestion caused by a parking shortage at the Midrand Police Station were robustly discussed recently.

This issue poses safety hazards to residents, students of the nearby Academic Institute of Excellence (AIE) Midrand Campus, businesses, and emergency services.

On February 9, a decisive meeting took place at the AIE campus, bringing together key stakeholders, including local businesses, police representatives, and the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), to confront these challenges head-on.

Read more: Lack of parking makes the list of woes for Midrand Police Station

Attendees included AIE’s CFO Ivan Theron, executive assistant Yolandi Laurence, HOD for support services and facilities management Johan de Winnaar, Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe, Midrand Police Station Brigadier Molefi David Tsotsotso, and Colonel Hosea Mantji, along with representatives from IAV Group and JRA.

The meeting aimed to devise practical solutions to combat the ongoing traffic congestion, prioritising safe access for emergency vehicles, which emerged as a non-negotiable requirement in both short-term and long-term strategies.

During the discussions, various parking and traffic mitigation options were proposed, including the police effectively maximising potential spaces and modifying the curb on the left-hand side of the open lot to create additional parking. Plans to level uneven areas and incorporate tarmac or suitable materials were agreed upon to ensure safe access for vehicles.

Additionally, the installation of a barrier around the open land at the corner of Bekker and Alexandra roads was agreed upon to ensure pedestrian safety.

Creating an access point from Alexandra Road to facilitate vehicle entry to the parking area was also endorsed, with the JRA tasked to draft designs and secure the necessary approvals.

The need for clear signage indicating parking reserved solely for police clients was highlighted, with AIE committed to funding this initiative. Furthermore, it was emphasised that no parking would be allowed in Oracle Close, and the police were instructed to engage with the car guard for their complete removal.

AIE will also install an additional camera to enhance visibility over the cul-de-sac. These were discussed as short-term solutions.

In terms of long-term strategies, the creation of a clearer physical separation between AIE and Midrand police parking areas was discussed, although doubts were expressed about its sustainability. Accurate measurements will be taken to ensure there is sufficient space for vehicles to navigate in and out without obstruction.

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The possibility of converting pedestrian pathways into extra parking bays was raised, but was met with opposition from JRA due to safety concerns for students.

Deppe highlighted that the building adjacent to AIE may soon be up for sale, yet noted that this did not represent a sustainable solution. She committed to contacting the owner and arranging a stakeholder meeting to explore viable options.

“Residents are unable to park within the station precinct because police vehicles are occupying the limited space available. The lack of proper sidewalk parking forces many visitors to park on the street or near the petrol station, which not only increases safety risks but also exacerbates traffic congestion,” said Deppe.

She further highlighted that due to these issues, AIE consistently faced obstruction at its entrance due to the same traffic issues.

“Such a situation is dangerous, as emergency vehicles would struggle to navigate the area during times of crisis,” Deppe added.

The councillor concluded that she would continue to work closely with all stakeholders to urgently implement effective solutions that would restore safe and efficient access for all.

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