The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has begun work on CR Swart as part of its ongoing resurfacing project, bringing much-needed upgrades to the busy route.

Contractors moved on-site earlier this week to fix the neglected road covered in potholes.

Read more: Ward 134 roads to benefit from JRAs R15m resurfacing project

For now, only one lane is operational while construction teams focus on milling and preparing the surface for new asphalt. A stop-and-go system has been implemented to manage traffic flow, with flag persons stationed to guide motorists safely through the work zone. This has resulted in delays during peak hours.

Residents are being urged to use alternative routes where possible to ease congestion and help the project progress more efficiently.

The R15m Road Resurfacing Project was implemented by JRA, with the majority of work concentrating in wards 101 and 134. The project was supposed to include sections of CR Swart Drive, Elnita and Puttick avenues, and Taurus and Vermooten roads.

According to Ward 134 councillor Devon Steenkamp, the entity cancelled the project, citing that there was no budget for it. “They cancelled the entire project, me and councillors and I fought, as it was unacceptable; we did not believe their budget excuses. They wanted to move to another location. However, after all that, they have now decided to cancel other roads and do CR Swart Drive only.

“We had a public participation, people added their voices and understood this is what the project scope is, they can’t just now pick and choose how they want to bend it and divert from the project on where it’s going to be and how the money is going. They had a proper plan; this is taxpayers’ money that’s been used.”

Also read: Ward 134 benefits from high-visibility operation

He added that selected streets will now be resurfaced, excluding Puttick and Taurus roads, despite a combined R5.17m budget previously allocated to these roads as part of the R15m programme.

“Puttick and Taurus are critical routes and were promised upgrades. We cannot allow our area to lose its fair share. This sudden change, without proper explanation or consultation, is deeply concerning and unfair to our community.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Ward 134 councillor Devon Steenkamp on site on CR Swart Drive, addressing some of the issues surrounding the JRA resurfacing project and urging residents to use alternative routes if possible to avoid traffic. Video: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni #Ward134 #Randburg ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Steenkamp’s office has launched a petition demanding that Puttick and Taurus roads be reinstated in the plan. “Please add your name and share with neighbours to strengthen our case.”

Questions were sent to JRA, and their response will be published once made available

Link for petition

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