Bakwena has embarked on the upgrading of National Road N1 and this entails the addition of an additional lane on the north and southbound carriageways between Proefplaas Interchange (N4) to Zambezi Drive. Certain sections of the existing lanes will also be rehabilitated and a new surface overlay on the entire section will be constructed.
Road line markings are currently being undertaken on this section of the road. Existing lanes will be moved to the left with a reduction in the lane widths and reduced speed limits. The road users are hereby informed of the sequence where firstly the slow lane on the northbound carriageway will be closed between 09:00 and 15:00 followed by the southbound carriageway for the next two weeks (5th September to 17th September 2011). During the night between approximately 19:30 till 05:00 in the morning , the second and fast lane will be closed for road line markings over the same period. The physical construction of the additional lanes within the median will commence in the week of 19th September 2011.
Bakwena will as part of the improvements also install median lighting along the section between Proefplaas Interchange and the Pumulani and Doornpoort Toll Plazas. This lighting will enhance the safety of road users at night. The planned start date of construction is 19th of September 2011 and the completion date is planned for January 2013. The project cost is R272 million and the lighting of this section will be completed by mid 2013. The median lighting will be done at an estimated cost of R30 million. The construction works will be managed to ensure there is not a very significant reduction in traffic capacity during construction. Tow trucks will be available 24/7 to remove broken down vehicles. The relevant authorities have been notified of the project and will be involved throughout the construction period to deal with emergencies.
The toll tariffs remain unaffected and we want to thank the public for their patience during the construction of the first phase. Bakwena hereby request that motorists be considerate towards the construction of the additional works.