The Westdene Dam Precinct is undergoing a mega makeover as part of an effort by the City of Johannesburg to encourage residents to reclaim their streets.

The seven-month project, which costs approximately R38 million, is part of the Empire Perth Corridor, non-motorised transport programme to get residents out in the streets walking and connecting to public transport easier.

The City says residents around Westdene, Sophiatown, Auckland Park and Melville will benefit from improved sidewalks, crosswalks, paths, bicycle lanes and networks, increased road and path connectivity, with special non-motorised shortcuts; and traffic calming features to name a few.

Improved quality of life

The key elements of the project entail road upgrades, service upgrades, sidewalk upgrades, and the upgrade of an existing public park. According to the City about 81 local labourers and 7 SMMEs have been appointed to the Westdene project.

The JDA’s Acting CEO, Christo Botes, is confident that the Westdene project will provide health benefits as well as improve the lifestyle of the communities in Westdene, Sophiatown, Auckland Park and Melville and adjacent suburbs.

“Residents will also experience, good walking and cycling opportunities, which are a key part of any sustainable transport and planning strategy, and provide an overall improvement of the quality of life,” notes Botes.