Vadi said that this project has been prioritised for development by the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport as it had been delayed previously due to budgetary constraints.

“This is an extremely old road with high traffic volumes. It is in a state of disrepair and is unsafe for motorists,” said Vadi.

“I am pleased that it will be upgraded to a dual carriageway to allow for better and safer mobility between Johannesburg and Sedibeng,” he added. 

In Phase 1 between Eikenhof and Walkerville, 4.5km of the existing single road way will be rebuilt into a dual carriageway. In the second phase, the total length between Walkerville and De Deur will be upgraded and re-surfaced. The project is scheduled to be completed by July 2013.  

The Department of Roads and Transport emphasised that this project is meant to provide an alternative link between Johannesburg and Sedibeng. It will also allow for greater accessibility to housing developments along its corridors such as the proposed Gauteng Highlands Development.

“We are extremely pleased with this type of development. This road has been on the waiting list for reconstruction for many years and we are very happy that the MEC has done something about it. The people of Sedibeng will be please to know that the traffic frustrations on R82 will be lessened”, said the Executive Mayor of the Sedibeng District Municipality, Councillor MS Mofokeng.

The communities en route will benefit through employment opportunities, training opportunities and contract opportunities for the local SMMEs. The project will create 100 job opportunities and preference will be given to sub-contractors empowering women, youth and people with disabilities.

R82 Old Vereeniging Road upgrade