GEORGE NEWS - The long-awaited R50-million upgrade of the Thembalethu section of Nelson Mandela Boulevard has started, and Thembalethans must prepare themselves for an entire year of road disruptions.
The upgrade, which promises to make Thembalethu more accessible and ease traffic congestion during peak hours, started late in September and the anticipated completion date is 16 November 2018.
The work entails the upgrading of the existing single-lane roadway to a dual carriageway with paved walkways, cycle lanes and a paved median with improved street lighting.
According to a statement released by George Municipality, delays are expected during the road works and the project will involve road closures at various sections throughout the construction period. The first section of construction has seen the full closure of Nelson Mandela Boulevard from 13th to 21st streets. The road is expected to re-open for traffic on 19 December. Access to businesses and residents will be maintained at all times.
"It is suggested that motorists make use of Ngcakani and Tabata streets as alternative routes during the closures. The safety and convenience of the travelling public are of utmost importance. Every effort will be made to ensure that all temporary road signs, cones, flag operators and speed controls are maintained and are effective and that courtesy is extended to the travelling public at all times," read the statement.
Issues involving businesses such as Loxion Lounge and vendors who work in the road reserve still need to be sorted out.
The president of the Thembalethu Business Chamber, Richard Shumi, is also concerned that the road reserve is too narrow. "It is classified as a class 3 road. The widening of the road now impacts on the distance between the buildings and the road surface and I am concerned that cars will spin into houses next to the road in case of an accident."
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• Nelson Mandela Boulevard upgrade long overdue
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ARTICLE: ZOLANI SINXO, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST | IDINGA EDITOR
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