The repairs of the low-lying bridge on Pierre Road in Ruimsig Agricultural Holdings have caused residents to experience months of detours and disrupted travel, and are finally nearing completion.

While finishing touches are still underway, the main structure is now in place, signalling the final phase of the R26m project.

The bridge’s culvert suffered severe erosion in 2018 and continued to deteriorate over the years due to heavy rainstorms. The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) declared the bridge unsafe, and after delays, construction initially began on March 28. After more than seven months, the new culvert and bridge structure stand ready to restore safe access to the community.

• Also read: Pierre Road street bridge finally gets much-needed repairs

“The upgrades on Pierre Road will restore the structural integrity of the bridge and road, which is crucial for the community’s daily travel,” said JRA CEO Zweli Nyathi.

“This project is part of a larger plan to upgrade critical road and stormwater infrastructure across the City of Johannesburg, ensuring our roads are safer and more reliable for everyone.”

• Also read: Councillor pushes for bridge repairs

JRA’s head of Infrastructure Development, Kwazelela Mcetywa, said that while the main bridge structure is complete, the project is still on track to finish by November 28, once resurfacing and surrounding works are completed.

Motorists are still asked to follow detours along Deysel, Hoëveld, Hans, and Johan Roads until the road reopens. The project has supported both infrastructure development and local employment by providing jobs for 15 people to work at the bridge construction site.