A massive R3 billion upgrade of the N1 between Old Oak and Koelenhof interchange is on the horizon as the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) gears up to launch the project, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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In a media statement released on 10 September 2024, Sanral announced the completion of the detailed design for the planned improvements to the N1, spanning approximately 13 km between the Old Oak and Koelenhof interchanges.
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With an estimated cost exceeding R3 billion, the project includes upgrading the highway from four lanes to six or eight lanes, as well as overhauling five major interchanges.
Additionally, pedestrian safety measures, including street lighting along the entire route, will be introduced.
Sanral is now in the final stages of preparing to take the project to market.
The Regional Manager for the Western Region, Randall Cable, said this aggressive drive to put out work into the market speaks to Sanral’s commitment to economic recovery.
‘The SANRAL footprint is growing and a continuous pipeline of projects both to maintain and develop our national road network is key to stimulate economy growth and the creation of job opportunities,’ said Cable.
He emphasised that Sanral has made significant progress on its maintenance programs in the Western and Northern Cape, with several resurfacing projects recently completed or nearing completion.
Additionally, a section of the N2 between Swartklip and Baden Powell Interchanges, approximately 12 km adjacent to Khayelitsha and Mfuleni, is currently under design.
The project will upgrade the highway from four to six/eight lanes, improve four major interchanges, and enhance pedestrian safety, including the replacement of old street lighting.
A 6 km portion must also be raised due to rising water levels. The estimated cost is R2 billion, with a construction tender set for November 2024.
The Huguenot Tunnel, in operation for over 36 years with more than 112 million vehicles passing through, is undergoing upgrades to meet international safety standards and increased traffic demands.
In the past 24 months, significant improvements have been made to the South Bore, including upgrades to lighting, ventilation, and fire detection systems.
The final design for the overdue upgrade of the North Bore has been completed, and Sanral is set to go to market soon for the five-year, R4 billion construction contract.
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Picture: Western Cape Government