UPGRADE OF INTERSECTIONS IN MONTAGU SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED

The upgrade of several key intersections in Montagu has been successfully completed, including Bath and Cross Street, Bath and Mark Street, Piet Retief and Cross Street, and Piet Retief and Kohler Street.

The Bath and Cross Street intersection was transformed from an asphalt surface to a raised, high-quality brick-paved area, providing a durable and visually appealing finish that enhances both safety and aesthetics.

The improvements include new road signage and pedestrian crossings, along with the replacement of all underground services such as water, sewer, and stormwater lines. Additionally, a section of Bath Street was resurfaced as part of the project.

Nearby, similar upgrades were made. The Bath and Mark Street intersection was upgraded to a raised brick-paved surface, while the Piet Retief and Cross Street and Piet Retief and Kohler Street intersections were resurfaced and completed after construction.

The total approved budget for the project was R 3 697 794.06 (including VAT).

Below is a breakdown of the material costs for the different areas of work (excluding VAT):

• Replacement of underground services (water, sewer, stormwater): R 756 361
• Resurfacing of roads: R 689 820
• Bath and Cross Street intersection: R 499 255
• Bath and Mark Street intersection: R 170 280
• Piet Retief and Cross Street intersection: R 155 153.59
• Piet Retief and Kohler Street intersection: R 155 153.59

The balance covered labour and overhead costs.

Construction work involved the removal of the old road surface and base layers, followed by the replacement of all underground services. Trenches were backfilled in accordance with SANS 1200 standards, and the road layer works were rebuilt to meet provincial and SANS 1200 specifications.

As part of the Erf 879 development, the developer was unable to provide the required number of parking spaces for the property. A report approved by the Executive Mayoral Committee on 15 June 2021 required the developer to contribute R 361 000.00 plus a 10% escalation towards the upgrade of the Bath and Cross Street intersection.

The project was completed within the approved timeframe, with short extensions granted to accommodate additional work identified during construction.

This upgrade forms part of the Municipality’s ongoing commitment to improving road safety, accessibility, and service delivery for all residents and visitors in Montagu.