Kilburn Street Bridge Rebuild to Commence in September, Declares Johannesburg Roads Agency

The Johannesburg Roads Agency has announced that the Kilburn Street bridge repair will start in September. However, businesses at the Kilburn Street Shopping Centre still face at least 12 months of reduced foot traffic. The lack of progress at the Kilburn Street hole has left the community questioning the municipal urgency in addressing the issue. Heavy rains have further exacerbated the situation, causing severe embankment erosion that damaged the stormwater pipe and culvert structure, leading to a complete road closure and leaving businesses, residents, and motorists isolated and inconvenienced.

Motorists are enduring extra costs in fuel and kilometres on alternative routes. At the same time, residents cope with the once-quiet streets turning into main routes with deteriorating surfaces. The nearby school bordering the hole has experienced six months of congested drop-offs and pick-ups, further complicating the situation. The long-term impact is also evident in the reduced passing traffic frequenting the Kilburn Street Shopping Centre, affecting businesses’ revenue.

Also read: Dalpark Residents Play a Road Repair Waiting Game as Frustration Mounts

Among those affected, Gary Hulme, owner of a popular pizza franchise in the centre, reports a nearly 30% decrease in revenue this year. For over four decades, the family-owned hardware store has seen a 20% downturn in turnover from the previous year, according to custodian Pieter van Hoogdalem. Fierce competition and the centre’s secluded location make nearby conveniently situated stores more attractive, adding to the challenges businesses face.

The much-awaited feedback from the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) relieved the owners. The agency aims to complete the project in less than 12 months. The estimated cost is R18 million, and the completion date is July 2024. However, it provided no information regarding the repair of the crumbling detour roads, which have contributed to the community’s difficulties.

Before receiving this news, both owners were uncertain about the risks associated with a prolonged closure of their businesses. Van Hoogdalem expressed frustration at being left in the dark while cautiously welcoming the recent announcement. With work set to begin in just two months, business owners, motorists, and school-goers anxiously hope for an efficient remedy to restore normalcy to the area.

Source: Johannesburg Roads Agency declares Kilburn Street bridge rebuild set to begin in September

Also read:

Extensive Road Repairs Commence at the Intersection of William Nicol and Sandton Drives

Picture: Facebook / Johannesburg Roads Agency

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