R101/R304 roadworks near completion

The road rehabilitation work on the R101 and R304 between Old Paarl Road and Bloekombos has reached the half-way mark.

The R59 million project began in April last year and will be completed in early 2017, said Department of Transport and Public Works spokesman Byron la Hoe.

A 4.29km stretch of the R101 is being rehabilitated, while the work on the R304 comprises the construction of new side drains, the reconstruction of a pedestrian sidewalk, the reconstruction of property entrances, the installation of new concrete kerbs and channels, new pipe and portal culverts, and the construction of a passing lane.

So far, Mr La Hoe said, half of all the planned road rehabilitation works had been completed.

Electrical fence lines had been relocated, and the installation of underground services and stormwater structures was complete.

“Half-width construction is taking place. In other words, one lane is closed. There are stop/go operations to manage traffic along affected sections during the day, and a traffic light system at night.”

Mr La Hoe said 10 000 days of work had been created for people living in Bloekombos and the secluded De Novo farm.

“A total of 19 000 person-days of work will be created for people from De Novo and Bloekombos by the time the project is complete,” he said.

Once the project is completed, residents and visitors will greatly benefit from improved conditions on these roads,” Mr La Hoe said.