The Member of the Mayoral Committee for Development Planning in the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Eunice Mgcina, embarked on an oversight visit to five major infrastructure projects across the city.
The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) is the infrastructure development arm of the City of Johannesburg, having implemented over 1300 capital expenditure projects.
In a determined effort to connect with the community and assess the Johannesburg Development Agency’s ongoing development initiatives, Cllr Mgcina’s itinerary spanned from Region F to Region G, allowing ample time for fruitful interactions and comprehensive assessments.
The oversight tour took place on Wednesday, 19 July. The objective was to gain first-hand insights into the progress and impact of projects enhancing the quality of life for all residents and the wider community.
Most projects showcased stellar work undertaken by the City’s Regeneration Programme, while others experienced various challenges.
The MMC’s oversight tour started at Johannesburg City Library, which was first opened in 1935. The JDA is implementing renovations at the iconic building on Albertina Sisulu Road and Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Street.
The renovations and refurbishments include roof repairs and fire protection systems upgrades to the library.
“During the visit were told about various challenges impeding the library from opening. The JDA will continue renovations and works to ensure that the library is fit for occupation,” MMC Mgcina said.
The second stop was the new Central Fire Station, which is in its final stretch of construction. It is expected to accelerate the response to fire or rescue incidents in the inner city’s high-rise buildings.
“I am excited about the completion of the new Central Fire Station. I am happy with the progress of the development,” MMC Mgcina noted.
The oversight tour then saw the MMC head to the Bertrams Multipurpose Centre, which will house a community hall, senior citizens support, women’s empowerment centre, childcare, social development offices, youth and skills development facilities and a basketball court.
The MMC also visited Region G in Orange Farm. As part of the Orange Farm Turnkey Programme, the JDA has been implementing bulk stormwater infrastructure in Ward 3 and 4. The stormwater project forms part of plans for the continued sustainable development of the Orange Farm community as an integrated human settlement development with accompanying supportive infrastructure.
The final stop was the Chris Hani Sports Complex project, which is currently in its first phase and forms part of the Orange Farm Turnkey Programme. It will have a multipurpose hall, athletics and soccer stadium, gatehouse, aquatics centre, and a high-performance centre.
“While there are some challenges, I do feel there are some infrastructure projects that are doing really well. I am happy that we are making progress and that our residents will be receiving what they have requested in their IDPs,” Cllr Mgcina said.
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