According to a release issues by the Western Cape Transport and Public Works, MEC Donald Grant was present at the opening of Blanco Road in Grorge on Wednesday,15 July 2015.
Speaking at the event, Grant stated that, “It is an honour to be here today to open the much awaited Blanco Road here in George. This R105 million project has been 15 months in the making, with work having begun in February 2014. This road will have far-reaching economic benefits for this region, serving to connect the Herold’s Bay area, to George and surrounds.”
The MEC stated that the project has been a test of their delivery capabilities. Construction covered a total 19.22 km, and has included reseal and structural work, culvert extension and the construction of a new bridge.
The socio-economic need for this project is demonstrated in, amongst other things, how much traffic this road has to carry. This road will be used by some 3 562 vehicles daily, of which 188 are heavy vehicles. “These are indeed high traffic volumes for a road that was last refurbished in 1992, 23 years ago,” said Grant.
Empowerment played a huge role in this project, with 38 983 person days of labour created, all sourced locally, with 25% taken up by women. Over R8.2 million has been spent on local labour, with close to R2 million spent on the appointment of a local emerging contractor. Local sub-contractor Qualcon Civils CC was awarded the emerging contractor tender for the channelling and drainage works during the project, with Baseline, the main contractor, providing mentorship to this emerging contractor.
The effect of this road construction should be felt in the area for years to come.