/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The Department of Transport and Public Works is making good progress with the rehabilitation of Suider Agter Paarl Road between Old Paarl Road (the R101) and the R44. This R61 million project started in June 2015 and is scheduled for completion in August 2016.

The project includes adding surface shoulders to the sides of the road, the construction of a pedestrian walkway on the southern side, and the upgrading of existing drainage structures and channels.

The project also has benefits for the local community. The contractor has agreed to build a new sports field at Bergendal Primary School in exchange for being permitted to store construction equipment and material on a farmer’s private land. The construction of the sports field has begun and is expected to be complete in July 2016.

One-way traffic flow will be possible throughout the construction period, with stop/ go operations during the day and traffic signals at night.

The project has already exceeded its empowerment and employment targets by a long way. Contract expenditure on targeted enterprises so far is R9,9 million, significantly more than the R6,8 million target at this stage. A total of 13 590 person-days of work have been created so far for people from the Cape Winelands District, more than double the 6 000 person-day target.

The 6 km Suider Agter Paarl Road was last refurbished in 1980. Over 720 motorists who use this road every day will soon enjoy a better travelling experience on one of the most popular Cape Winelands tourism routes.

Follow the Department on Twitter @WCGovTPW under the hashtag #roadworksWC

Issued by Department of Transport and Public Works