The City of Cape Town’s ongoing struggle with congestion and urban mobility has taken an intriguing turn with the rejection of a local engineer’s innovative proposal to utilise unfinished sections of an elevated freeway for a new rail line, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Gareth Ramsay’s vision aimed to create a 6-kilometre rail route connecting Woodstock and Sea Point, culminating at Three Anchor Bay, in a bid to alleviate the city’s traffic woes while repurposing what he referred to as a ‘dead zone’.
Ramsay submitted his ambitious plan to the Urban Mobility Department back in February 2023.
He argued that the proposed rail line would not only improve transport options but could also play a crucial role in addressing historical inequalities by providing a cost-effective alternative that enhances access to employment opportunities and popular locales.
By improving mobility, it would help address historical inequalities, offering a cost-effective transport option that facilitates access to opportunities and popular destinations, he stated on LinkedIn.
Furthermore, Ramsay highlighted that the construction of a rail line would present a viable alternative to completing the controversial Foreshore freeways.
This option would optimise the city’s most valuable land for public transit rather than additional vehicular infrastructure that could potentially heighten congestion.
He pointed out that this contradicts the City’s aim of reducing congestion within the city and making it more pedestrian-friendly.
Despite the compelling nature of Ramsay’s proposal, it is reported that the City of Cape Town has expressed reluctance to embrace the audacious plan.
The idea gained traction on social media, drawing public interest; however, City officials remain sceptical. Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility Councillor Rob Quintas articulated the City’s stance in an interview with Cape Argus.
‘The City has already invested in a road-based public transport system servicing the CBD and Atlantic seaboard in the form of the MyCiTi bus service. Investment in improving existing services is more practical and cost-effective,’ he remarked, effectively quelling the momentum behind Ramsay’s recommendation.
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Residents urged to share views on Cape Town CBD mobility and access plan
Picture: Gareth Ramsay / Linkedin
