City of Joburg Commits to Rebuilding Rea Vaya: Refurbishment and Expansion Projects Underway

Johannesburg’s Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, which serves as a lifeline for 45,000 daily commuters, is set for a significant revival. The City of Johannesburg has pledged to refurbish five vandalised and inactive stations while advancing key projects to expand the network’s reach and improve its reliability.

Refurbishment of Inactive Stations

The five inactive stations to be refurbished include:

• Rivonia (Sandton)
• Rissik Street (CBD)
• Louis Botha (Bramley)

These stations, part of the 58-station network, have suffered from years of vandalism and looting, particularly the newer ones constructed in recent phases.

Transport MMC Kenny Kunene acknowledged the challenges, including the lengthy procurement process for BRT-compliant buses, which are not manufactured locally.

Gandhi Square BRT Station Development

The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) is making strides to improve city-centre connectivity with two new BRT stations in the Gandhi Square Precinct. These stations, part of the Phase 1C trunk route, will:

• Link the CBD to Sandton and Alexandra via Rivonia Road and Katherine Drive.
• Provide enhanced connections from Parktown to Alexandra along Louis Botha Avenue.

Key Features

• Dedicated bus lanes to streamline traffic.
• Construction progress currently stands at 42%.
• Located on Commissioner and Albertina Sisulu streets between Rissik and Joubert streets.

JDA CEO Themba Mathiba stated, “Transport is a vital backbone of Johannesburg’s growth. This project will connect communities to education, business, and work opportunities.”

Rea Vaya Phase 1C: A Comprehensive Expansion Plan

The Phase 1C expansion will include:

• 13 low-flow stations and five interchanges.
• Cycle routes, pedestrian walkways, and improved bridges along the Louis Botha Corridor.
• 141 low-entry buses connecting key areas like the Joburg CBD, Hillbrow, Alexandra, and Sandton.
• Two depots:
  • Alexandra Depot (completed, housing 30 buses).
  • Selby Depot (under refurbishment to accommodate up to 270 buses).

Challenges Facing the Rea Vaya System

Informal Settlements

A key hurdle is the informal settlement stalling the R140 million Alexandra depot project, restricting access for buses and refuelling trucks.

Vandalism and Neglect

While older stations remain operational, newer ones have been rendered inactive due to neglect and vandalism.

To support local communities, the JDA is employing labour-intensive methods in construction, providing short-term employment opportunities for unskilled and semi-skilled workers.

Impact on Joburg Residents

Once completed, the expanded and refurbished Rea Vaya BRT system will offer:

• Affordable, safe, and reliable public transport for Johannesburg’s growing population.
• Increased connectivity between residential and economic hubs.
• Enhanced infrastructure that supports long-term city development.

Despite challenges, the city’s commitment to restoring and expanding the Rea Vaya network marks a crucial step in improving public transport for its residents.

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