Construction on the Sjampanje Street bridge continues, with demolition of the old structure now complete and excavation work well under way.

Residents travelling past the site have seen significant progress in recent weeks. The damaged bridge has been demolished, extensive excavations completed, the stream beneath the bridge diverted to allow construction to continue, and electricity cables relocated to make way for the next phase of the project.

The bridge has remained closed since it partially collapsed during heavy rainfall in December 2023, forcing motorists, residents and school traffic to use alternative routes.

• Also read: JRA officially launches long-awaited Sjampanje Street bridge repair project

The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) officially launched the reconstruction project in May after physical work was delayed earlier this year. At the time, the agency said construction could not progress beyond site establishment until a leaking sewer pipe adjacent to the bridge had been repaired.

The work completed so far reflects the initial phases of the reconstruction project presented to residents during a public meeting in February.

At the meeting, project representatives said the first phase would include demolishing the existing bridge, carrying out earthworks and excavations, relocating or protecting existing services, and preparing the site for construction.

According to the project scope, the next phase will involve constructing a new cast-in-situ five-cell culvert bridge designed to improve stormwater capacity.

Additional work will include the installation of drainage infrastructure, erosion protection measures such as gabion baskets and stone pitching, reconstruction of the road pavement, asphalt surfacing, and the installation of guardrails, road signs and road markings.

• Also read: R32.7m to rebuild Sjampanje Street bridge

The City of Johannesburg MMC for Transport, Clr Kenny Kunene, together with the JRA board and JRA CEO Zweli Nyathi, marked the start of the project with a sod-turning ceremony on May 7.

At the launch, the JRA said the new bridge would have greater hydraulic capacity than the previous structure and include additional erosion protection to reduce the risk of future structural failures.

• Also read: Long-awaited Sjampanje bridge reconstruction finally underway

Meanwhile, residents remain concerned about an electricity pylon next to the bridge that has been leaning towards the river since heavy rainfall in March 2024 undermined one of its foundations. They say the structure has continued to deteriorate, with the concrete base shifting and raising fears that it could collapse.

City Power was approached for comment on the condition of the pylon and any planned remedial work, and their responses will be shared in a follow-up article, once received.

Once completed, the bridge will reconnect residential areas, businesses and schools on either side of the crossing, restoring a route that has been closed for more than two years.

According to the JRA, construction is expected to be completed within the planned 10-month programme, subject to weather conditions and any unforeseen delays.