The second phase of the Klein Jukskei bond stream bulk stormwater project in Ferndale, in Johannesburg, is set to get underway on June 20, with completion expected to be completed by mid-September 2023, subject to favourable weather conditions.

The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) on Monday said that the second phase of the major stormwater upgrade works forms part of a larger project that will capacitate the stormwater infrastructure to cater for a 1-in-25-year storm event.

The overall project includes the bulk upgrade of road stormwater runoff pipes, between kerb lines, on the corner of Main and Bond Streets to increase their capacity and accommodate all excess stormwater in the area to alleviate flooding previously experienced.

The entire project is designed to be implemented in three phases, the first of which was completed in 2021, said JRA acting CEO Goodwill Zwelithini Nyathi.

“The second phase entails the installation of a further 56 m of stormwater pipes and 380 m of box culverts, along with associated stormwater manholes, kerb inlets, road kerbs, paving, road reinstatement on Bond street between Pine and Vine avenues, and the applicable signage and markings. A budget of R15-million has been allocated to the implementation of Phase 2 of the project,” he said.

“Inadequate stormwater pipes along the Klein Jukskei river resulted in water seepage which damaged the boundary walls of numerous surrounding properties and flooded roads. Therefore, in accordance with the Stormwater Master Plan which determines the specifications for adequate stormwater systems, JRA’s bulk stormwater upgrade project will alleviate frequent flooding on roads and residential properties in Wards 102 and 104 thereby ensuring safety to road users and the community as well as protection of affected properties,” said Transport MMC Councillor Kenny Kunene.

The JRA’s risk mitigation plan to ensure the safety of residents and motorists during the project includes a traffic accommodation plan on Bond and Main streets in Ferndale, where there will be partial lane closures on excavated sites; barricading of excavation sites; and visible traffic signage in place.

While minimal traffic impact is expected, as one lane will remain open to traffic, motorists are urged to adhere to the signage and reduce their travelling speed to 20 km/h when approaching the roadwork sites.

The project will also benefit the local community through the employment of 20 workers under the Expanded Public Works Programme and provide business opportunities to four small, medium-sized and microenterprises.

The next phase of the project will be communicated when the second phase is completed.