Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has confirmed that the delayed Pretoria Avenue and Katherine Street intersection project remains within its allocated budget, despite missing its February 6 completion deadline.

In an earlier report, this publication noted that the intersection had not reopened by the planned practical completion date. Ward 91 councillor Andrew Stewart subsequently raised concerns about the project’s reported cost, stating in council that R18.5m had been spent, and calling for a detailed breakdown of the expenditure.

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In response to questions from this publication, JRA HOD: Regional operations Khayalethu Gqibitole said expenditure on the project is within the allocated budget.

Gqibitole clarified that the project involved reinstating a damaged section of road, following repair works to a burst, bulk-water supply pipe by Johannesburg Water. “JRA is the implementing agent in line with the service level agreement entered into by both parties. The budget and funding of the project come from Johannesburg Water.”

Addressing concerns about possible cost escalations, Gqibitole stated that there were no scope changes during the project. “No variations were issued. The project is within budget.

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JRA also confirmed that no additional expenses were incurred as a result of delays. According to Gqibitole, construction was prolonged due to inclement weather and recurring pipe bursts within the catchment area. “The nature and geometric layout of the site is such that it is on a low point within the catchment area, which led to saturated site conditions on rainy days, and, on a few occasions, after pipe bursts within the catchment area. These incidents prolonged the construction period. All costs are within the budget. No additional expenses were incurred.”

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