Improved visibility, additional lanes
"The excavator which will be used to remove the small koppie opposite Noordhoek Manor arrived on site at about 9am this morning. The excavation of the rock outcrop is the first step in improving the sight distance at this busy intersection. The koppie is nearly 3m high, making it difficult for motorists to see oncoming traffic. Once this excavation work is well under way, we will commence with the works on the western side of Ou Kaapse Weg on either side of the intersection with Silvermine Road. Here we will provide additional lanes for those turning left into and left out of Silvermine Road as well as a right-turn lane," said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member: Transport and Urban Development Authority, Councillor Brett Herron.
Once completed, the additional lanes and improved sight distance will significantly contribute to the safety of all road users at this intersection.
"I want to add that an environmental control officer is supervising all works at the site to ensure that all of the necessary environmental authorisations are being adhered to by our contractor. We harvested the plants and seeds in the vicinity of the koppie some time ago already and these have been transported to a local fynbos nursery for care and propagation. Once we have removed the koppie, we will re-establish the topsoil and vegetation. The rock outcrop will be processed and reused along other sections of the Kommetjie Road Project in due course," said Herron.
Warning signs have been installed along the sections where the works are taking place.
"The speed limit along these sections is 40 km/h and I request motorists to please adhere to the warning signs. Road users should also expect some minor delays at this intersection as slow-moving construction vehicles will be travelling to and from the site for the duration of the works," said Herron.
The preparatory works for the Kommetjie Road Project commenced in October last year. The project will take place over a period of 30 months, pending any unforeseen challenges.
"The R171 million will be spent on new road infrastructure, including dual carriageways, to alleviate the congestion along sections of Kommetjie Road and Ou Kaapse Weg between Kommetjie Road and Noordhoek Main Road. All in all, the roadworks will cover a distance of approximately 3,5 km. We will try our best to limit the inconvenience caused during this time, however, roadworks are disruptive in nature and unexpected challenges can derail our best intentions and precautions. Residents and visitors are, therefore, requested to please be patient," said Herron.
The Transport and Urban Development Authority will communicate with the local residents and affected parties on a continual basis through notices and alerts, updates and newsletters. Regular community meetings will be hosted to provide interested and affected parties with the latest information.
