The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), the infrastructure arm of the City of Johannesburg, announces the commencement of the procurement process for a new contractor for the Watt Street Public Environment (PEU) Project. This decision follows the termination of the main contractor due to poor performance.
Located in the Wynberg area, the Watt Street Precinct serves as a pivotal space transitioning from an industrial hub to a mixed-use node. Its strategic position between Alexandra Township and Sandton facilitates a daily foot traffic of approximately 10,000 individuals.
The Watt PEU Project is designed to elevate the street infrastructure to a level where it caters to diverse users, prioritising pedestrian experience and enhancing public space. The objectives of the project encompass easing mobility, upgrading infrastructural services, improving area legibility, addressing critical public safety concerns, and fostering adaptable public spaces.
Originally slated for practical completion by the end of March 2024, the Watt PEU Project faces delays due to the non-performance of the contracted party, leading to the termination of the agreement.
As the JDA initiates a new procurement process to secure a replacement contractor, it acknowledges the inevitable setback in project completion. A revised timeline for the facility’s conclusion will be communicated in due course.
Mr. Siyabonga Genu, Executive Manager: Project Implementation at the JDA, expressed the organisation’s commitment to rectifying the situation, stating, “We understand the community’s frustrations regarding the delay of the Watt Street Public Environment Project. We assure stakeholders that we are dedicated to ensuring the project’s successful completion, mindful of the impact it has on the community and the broader cityscape.”
The JDA has invested significantly in the Watt Precinct over the past six years as part of its Transit-Oriented Development Programme.
This investment encompasses various public environment upgrades within and around the precinct, such as pedestrian walkways, the Great Walk bridge over the M1 highway, the establishment of major new at-grade intersections facilitating access to the precinct, and the implementation of the Rea Vaya Phase 1C Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
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