Update on N2 roadworks

The Department of Transport and Public Works (DTPW) is making good progress with a R186 million project to rehabilitate a 7 km portion of the N2 between Borcherds Quarry Rd and the R300, and to add a third lane in both directions.

This project began in January 2016, and is expected to have been completed in mid-2017. So far, the project is 57% complete. Phase 1 of the work on the third lane is nearing completion, and Phase 2 to rehabilitate the middle and left lanes is progressing well. The piling and earthworks to prepare for the future construction of a bridge and interchange from Eisleben Rd onto the N2 is complete. The Borcherds Quarry Bridge has also been widened.

Current work in progress includes the rehabilitation of the existing left and middle lanes using recycled concrete road materials taken from the old road structure. By the time the holiday season begins, it is expected that work will have progressed to a point where traffic will flow easily through the section currently under construction.

About 82 000 vehicles travel on the affected stretch of road every day. The upgrade will improve the carrying capacity of the road, especially for buses and taxis during peak periods. The ride quality of the road will be improved and better street lighting will be installed. Every attempt will be made to facilitate the flow of traffic and minimise delays.

DTPW is committed to creating short-term Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) employment and skills training opportunities. Locally based emerging contractors are performing well with the supply and installation of a new subsoil drainage system. Contract expenditure to date is R11 million for targeted enterprises. A total of 9 216 person-days of work have been created so far for 80 men and 13 women from the City of Cape Town municipal area.

Follow the Department on Twitter @WCGovTPW under the hashtag #roadworksWC