Update
GEORGE NEWS - The project to widen the Maalgate Bridge on the R102 is progressing well and the current anticipated completion date is towards the end of August, according to Jandré Bakker, acting director of operational support at the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure.
The initial completion date was October 2022, but the project experienced a number of delays as a result of the first two contractors falling behind schedule. The current contractor, Empa Structures (Pty) Ltd, was appointed in June 2024.
"We are pleased to announce that since the appointment of the replacement contractor, matters have been progressing well, and we remain optimistic that the project will be completed according to the agreed programme," said Bakker.
He said the R102 is a vital alternative route between Mossel Bay and George.
The project cost amounts to R57 million
Provincial minister visits site
The provincial Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, visited the site as part of his oversight responsibilities during the Premier’s Cycle Tour this week.
He said Empa Structures was given the task to create 5 800 person days’ work, and they have already achieved 8 968. "Of the targeted 50 work opportunities, this translated to 62 already achieved. Of the target of R8,445m to be spent on targeted enterprises, R3,096m has already been achieved.”
The bridge is an at-grade structure which functions to span the Maalgate River below, which flows in a north-south direction. The existing bridge is a three-span reinforced concrete arch bridge with spandrel walls. The arches are filled with crushed-stone (rock fill), road layer works and an asphalt surfacing on top.
The widening of the bridge was designed to match the aesthetics of the original bridge, which was constructed in 1938.
Full road closure on Saturday 24 May
Road users are informed of a full road closure that will be in effect on Saturday, 24 May from 08:00 to 18:00. During this period no thoroughfare will be allowed.
Simmers praised his team under the expert guidance of the contract coordinator, Naasier Sambo, for getting the project back on track after a challenging time. "I further wish to thank road users for their patience during the construction process.”
Previous articles:
- Gwaiing Bridge re-tender process starts in 2024
- Bridges and embankments: Round-up on 3 major projects
- WC department terminates contract for Maalgate bridge
- Work on bridges halted once again
- Work on N3 Gwaiing bridge standing still - again
- Gwaiing bridge contract to resume next year
- New contractor for Gwaiing bridge project
- Gwaiing bridge project update
- Bridge project halted
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