JRA injects millions into M1 bridge revamp

27 January 2016

 

Flash flooding on one of Johannesburg’s major freeways will soon be a thing of the past following the commencement of rehabilitation and structural repair work by the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) on the M1 double-decker bridge between Carr and Anderson streets, Johannesburg.

 

JRA is the City of Johannesburg’s entity responsible for the provision and maintenance of roads and storm water infrastructure. The entity has allocated R82-million for the structural rehabilitation of the bridge.

The project, which started on January 6, involves intense rehabilitation and structural repairs; asphalt surfacing; rehabilitation of the expansion joints, bridge parapets, bearings and concrete members in the super and sub structures; improvement of the drainage systems; and erection of new road signs. Earlier this month this section of the freeway experienced heavy traffic congestion as a result of flash flooding.

“We expect that the impact of flash flooding on the double-decker section will be significantly reduced on completion as the rehabilitation includes drainage improvement and doubling-up of existing drainage infrastructure, ensuring that the bridge is able to effectively deal with large volumes of storm water runoff,” says JRA Acting Managing Director Mpho Kau.

The rehabilitation of the M1 double-decker bridge forms part of the City’s R365-million programme to rehabilitate ageing infrastructure and improve road safety on the M1 freeway. The project was launched in November 2015. Other projects along the M1 freeway include the rehabilitation of both Federation and Oxford roads’ bridges and the reconstruction of the 2km dual carriageway between Rockridge and Federation roads.

JRA will also replace the existing 3km storm water drainage system between Rockridge and Federation roads bridge.

“The safety of road users is a priority for JRA, and maintaining our roads infrastructure is an important component of this. High-quality roads contribute significantly to economic growth, and making citizens’ lives easier,” says Kau.

The rehabilitation of the M1 is expected to be completed by May 2017.Kau says the extensive repair work will result in the need for motorists to plan their routes and budget extra time for travel along this key route.

“We are appealing to all motorists to be courteous and patient during this time. The long-term benefits of a world-class M1 freeway bridge network will far outweigh the temporary inconvenience. Motorists are encouraged to explore alternate routes and make use of available public transport services, where possible,” states Kau.

The projects form part of the City’s 2015-2016 R1.4-billion budget to ensure the improvement of roads and storm water infrastructure. They are also part of its R110-billion 10-year infrastructure investment programme. The projects aim to support economic growth and development as they will help to reduce congestion and travel times, while facilitating the movement of people, goods and services.

Up to date details on construction progress and road closures are available on www.jra.org.za