Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has begun a R30-million upgrade of the M2 West highway and Main Reef road, and linked extensions, to ease congestion and improve access on this key arterial route.
Speaking at a sod-turning ceremony on the M2 freeway on Thursday Transport MMC Nonhlanhla Makhuba said Main Reef road and its extensions play a critical role in Johannesburg’s road network.
The project includes the construction of additional lanes and improvements to traffic signals and is expected to be completed by December.
“The roads are an essential link for many businesses, as well as commuters on their way to and from work and will help further our goals of achieving 5% economic growth within Johannesburg,” Makhuba said.
JRA MD Dr Sean Phillips said Johannesburg’s road network links to the provincial and national roads network.
“We have, therefore, undertaken a network study which re-evaluated key roads in the region, considering freight, public transport, improvements by authorities, the spatial development framework and other pertinent planning in the area,” he said.
Construction work will be carried out at night to fast-track planned upgrades, with minimal impact on road users. Lane closures will be effective between 19:00 and 05:00 daily.“To ease congestion during the construction period, motorists are advised to use alternative routes and take into consideration increased travelling times,” he said.
