Investing in infrastructure is a crucial component of economic growth. The Western Cape Infrastructure has invested R260 million in two road infrastructure projects in the Overberg District Municipality. These projects aim to ensure safe road usage for all and support the economy in the Western Cape.
The R326 Road Project
The first road project the bicycle handover tour team visited was the R326 road between Standford and Riviersonderend. The Department of Infrastructure invested R136.9 million in this project. The work on this 35 km road stretch included resealing, rehabilitation, and ancillary work. The project created job opportunities for local job seekers and reinvested over R17 million in local enterprises and Small, Medium, and Micro enterprises (SMMEs). The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of July 2023.
The R320 Road Project
On Day 2, the team continued cycling through the R320 road, undergoing rehabilitation. The Western Cape Infrastructure has set aside nearly R124 million to complete this project, which began in September 2021 successfully. The project is scheduled to be completed later in November and has seen the appointment of 21 SMMEs and local enterprises. The project has also created job opportunities.
The Impact of These Projects
Completing these two projects will benefit the region’s economy, connect communities, and provide safer road usage for all. The Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde, has emphasized that roads are the backbone of the Western Cape’s economy. Improving and maintaining the province’s highways and byways must continue.
Minister Simmers’ Comments
Minister Simmers said about the investment, “Sustainable road construction and maintenance practices can help reduce the impact on the environment, improve the health and safety of road users, and provide long-term cost savings. I am equally pleased to see that both these projects are being implemented well within the schedule. Soon the inconvenience of the stoppages on the R320 will be a thing of the past for our road users.”
Creating Job Opportunities
This investment ensures the creation of job opportunities in the region and over R55 million spent on local enterprises and SMMEs. The delivery of these two projects is a testament to the Western Cape Government’s commitment to delivering hope through investment in infrastructure.
