The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has signed an agreement with the Gauteng Provincial Department of Roads and Transport (GPDRT) to rebuild, upgrade and maintain 275 traffic signals on various intersections managed by the Gauteng province.

The strategic partnership aims to reduce traffic congestion and enhance road safety by ensuring the consistent functionality of traffic signals.

The JRA will initially prioritise upgrades and maintenance of traffic signals located on key economic and major routes of Johannesburg’s economic hubs, owing to resource constraints.

These upgrades will focus on improving safety and security and will incorporate advanced technologies to improve traffic flow within the City of Johannesburg.

Priority roads include Winnie Mandela drive, Beyers Naudé drive, Allandale road, Malibongwe drive, Grayston drive, Witkoppen road, Golden Highway, Kliprivier drive, Hendrik Potgieter drive, Ontdekkers road, Heidelberg road, Soweto Highway and Chris Hani road.

The JRA currently manages 2 023 traffic signal intersections, and will be on-boarding the additional 275 intersections managed by the Gauteng province.

“Consolidating all traffic lights in Johannesburg under the JRA’s management will streamline repairs, replacements and maintenance efforts, thereby ensuring the continued safe and efficient operation of designated traffic signals,” says JRA CEO Zweli Nyathi.

The collaboration between the JRA and GPDRT will benefit all road users, particularly in high-traffic areas.

“Many of these intersections provide access to the city’s M1 and M2 metropolitan motorways and national freeways. It is essential to minimise traffic disruptions and inconveniences to road users, thereby promoting smoother mobility throughout the city,” he emphasises.

The initiative, which followed extensive discussions between the two entities, reflects the JRA’s ongoing commitment to improving Johannesburg’s road infrastructure and enhancing the overall driving experience for residents and commuters, he adds.

The agreement is a critical step in the restoration of traffic light services to improve safety and facilitate mobility in and around the city, says GPDRT head Dr Thulani Mdadane.

“As part of the agreement, the JRA is tasked with pole painting; reflector cleaning and globe replacement; repairs to traffic lights and related equipment; repairs to cabling; repairs to signal heads and poles, as well as fuse replacement,” he says.

The JRA urges motorists to remain patient and exercise caution while navigating affected intersections, and it is committed to minimising disruptions and ensuring a seamless integration process to enhance overall traffic flow and safety.