Shaping the Future of Urban Mobility in Khayelitsha: New Walking and Cycling Lanes on the Horizon

The United Nations Global Road Safety Week has just concluded, and the City of Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorate is taking steps to improve road safety in the Khayelitsha Township. The project involves building walking and cycling lanes that are universally accessible, which will promote safety for all road users, especially pedestrians and cyclists.

Soliciting Feedback from the Community

To ensure that the voices of Khayelitsha residents are heard, the City is encouraging individuals to submit their opinions and recommendations on the project from May 18 to June 18, 2023. The Urban Mobility Directorate recognizes the importance of shared responsibility in ensuring road safety, and they are committed to creating safer non-motorized transport (NMT) spaces for pedestrians and cyclists.

Improving Non-Motorized Transport Infrastructure

Khayelitsha is Cape Town’s largest township, and most of its residents rely on public transportation. With the proposed NMT infrastructure enhancements, the City aims to provide safe routes for accessing public transport facilities, reducing the risk of accidents, and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Walking Safely to School Program

In addition to the planned walking and cycling lanes, the City is involved in the Walking Safely to School program, which is designed to protect child pedestrians in the township. The program is a multi-stakeholder effort led by Child Safe SA and involves the Urban Mobility Directorate and the Traffic Services Department.

Dedication to Minimizing Road Fatalities

Councillor Rob Quintas, the Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, emphasizes the City’s dedication to minimizing the number of lives lost on the roads. The focus is on implementing interventions that enhance pedestrian safety, particularly for vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

Submitting Comments and Recommendations

Khayelitsha residents are urged to submit their comments and recommendations on the City’s plan to expand the NMT network. The input of the community is crucial to the success of the project, and their firsthand experience and knowledge can help shape the future of urban mobility in the township.

To submit comments, residents can send an email to Transport.News@capetown.gov.za, visit www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay, or submit written suggestions at specified locations. The City will also host an information day at the Khayelitsha Training Centre on June 7, 2023, from 1 pm to 4 pm. For further information, residents can contact the City of Cape Town’s Call Centre on 0860 103 089.

The proposed project aims to create a safer and more accessible urban environment for Khayelitsha residents. By engaging with the community and incorporating their feedback, the Urban Mobility Directorate hopes to develop a comprehensive plan that will benefit all road users and pave the way for a brighter future in the township.