Motorists can rejoice the upgrade of the intersection on Springhaas and J G Strydom roads in Weltevreden Park.
Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has confirmed that work has already begun to ensure the safety and traffic flow at the intersection. This area was ear-marked as a dangerous intersection after years of accidents culminating in the tragic loss of a young man in January.
The 18-year-old man was knocked off of his motorcycle and succumbed to injuries sustained in the accident.
It was then that Bertha Peters-Scheepers, spokesperson for JRA, ordered a traffic count to be performed in order to evaluate what measures could be introduced to avoid such tragic accidents.
Glynis Rozendo, a local Weltevreden Park resident said, “Any improvement is great and if it minimises deaths and injuries, who could be against it?”
After much research and studying of the findings of the traffic count, JRA has began their work. “All four approaches [traffic lights] will now have their own green arrow for exclusive movement, which means that there will be no opposing of the traffic flow.” said Peters-Scheepers.
She further explained that while work is underway there is still cabling work that needs to be done for the new signal plans to be operational. This includes synchronising the cables to all of the traffic lights. The vehicle actuation sensors [are in the process] of being installed on all approaches to determine right of way.
Concerned local resident Stephan Ferreira commented, “I cross that intersection at least four times a day and even though I love the new traffic light system, a huge problem is still people jumping the red lights.”
Peters-Scheepers added, “The JRA is confident that this revised traffic-signal design will improve mobility and reduce congestion at the Springhaas intersection once completed.”
Ferreira added, “With all the accidents over the years, I find myself even stopping at the green light before crossing or turning as I no longer trust that others will stop if the light is red for them.”
Albert Barnard the owner of AEB Security, a business on the corner of Springhaas and J G Strydom said, “It’s about time and I am happy, but why did someone have to die for this intersection to be highlighted as dangerous? If people obey the green arrow, then it will work.”
Ward 89 Councillor Ingrid Reinten said, “[It is] great that JRA is responding to the tragic accident. We would like to have a community day where we survey the intersection, make plans to improve it and do something in memory of the young man who died there.”
Details: Ward 89 Councillor Ingrid Reinten, joburgward89@gmail.com or 083 440 8343 ; JRA, hotline@jra.org.za or 086 056 2874.
