More than just paint and polish, this is the unearthing of hidden history to reinforce the foundations for the future.
For six months, the heart of old Roodepoort has been a web of caution tape, scaffolding, safety netting and reflective jackets. The Roodepoort CBD precinct upgrade has been a slow wiping away of the worn and replacing with the new. Phase one of the project underway focuses on the streets between and including Albertina Sisulu Road and the railway line, from Mooi Street to Kort Street.
Originally due to be completed by March 2022, a list of delays and challenges has pushed the completion date back to July 2022. Once the project is complete, the precinct will have newly paved pedestrian walkways with bright LED lights, streamlined parking areas and fresh asphalt all on top of a new storm water system.
“We are at 54% total completion with 90% of the electrical work complete,” said Community Liaison Officer, Madidimalo Rakabe.
Beginning his work at the end of May this year, Madidimalo, popularly know and ‘Papie’, has been tirelessly coordinating with all stakeholders. “It is a live site and that always comes with challenges, but those are all overcome with dialogue,” Papie said, who has had to relocate street traders, liaise with taxi associations and business owners to ensure awareness, cooperation and understanding.
Through his position as Roodepoort ICE Chairman, Papie has also been able to build stronger ties with business owners around security, which goes hand in hand with creating a flourishing CBD. “The beauty is that it will be cleaner, safer and will offer universal access for the disabled. This will increase property values which will bring more opportunity, participation and ultimately more jobs, which is the most important thing,” he stressed.
The project forms part of the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) transit-oriented development plan which aims to streamline the road network while keeping the area’s unique heritage. The marquee feature of the station precinct is the steam locomotive that has stood in front of the 110-year old station building for over 40 years. The awning that guarded the symbol of Roodepoort’s progress has been dismantled and a new base is under construction, where a fully refurbished train will stand to welcome visitors for decades to come.
Also read: https://www.citizen.co.za/roodepoort-record/2020/12/07/roodepoort-train-station-gutted-by-fire/
As for the station building, that renovation will be undertaken by Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa in phase three of the refurbishment. Details are yet to be finalised, but the proposed new station is a modern double-story building spanning the width of the tracks, opening onto a plaza on the Roodepoort North side of the tracks. Should the trains return, a beautiful station and precinct will be there to greet them.
With many months to go, Papie is eager to reassure the community that he is available to address any concern they may have.
“I need everyone to know I have an open-door policy. Please ask questions, you will be surprised by the answers,” he stated. The physical realignment of streets and street corners combined with the visual makeover will deliver an end product of more jobs, investment and a rejuvenation of this historic heartbeat.
