The R38m road construction project in the Imizamo Yethu informal settlement in Hout Bay has been completed.
This two-year-long project comprises 14 roads including the realignment and construction of the roads, the installation of stormwater infrastructure, new sidewalks and walkways where the road reserves were wide enough, and streetlights.
According to a City of Cape Town statement, these roads are expected to make it much easier for local residents to reach their destinations and to serve as important access routes for emergency vehicles such as the police and fire brigade.
Mayco member for transport and urban development, Brett Herron, says he has always regarded the roads project in Imizamo Yethu as one of the most important items on the City’s to-do list.
Herron says roads are an essential component of urban living as they “create a sense of place and dignity, meaning it provides structure and something as simple as a street address to those who reside along them”.
“I believe the 14 new roads and the other services that form part of this project will go a long way in improving the living conditions of those who reside there.’”
He says one of the complexities of the project was the realignment of some of the roads and walkways to accommodate informal structures.
He says the project benefited local residents and subcontractors.
“To date the contractor has employed 50 local residents from Imizamo Yethu and the value of these temporary employment opportunities is approximately R1.2m. The contractor also acquired goods and services from local subcontractors to the value of nearly R600 000,’ says Herron.
Mayco member (North), Suzette Little, says the contractor is still working on some minor snags and the project will be completed by next September.
“We are planning to install the street names within the next three weeks.”
These roads will be named: A Boesak, J Naidoo, A Mlangeni, Bambata, C Hani, Hlintsa, M Goniwe, M Kotane, M Mabinda, N Aggett, S Biko, Molefe, H Joseph, and B February.