THE construction of the 40m composite bridge in Baakens Valley, now known as the Tramways Unity Bridge, has finally reached completion.
This Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) project will not only provide a safe walking space, but also alleviate the parking congestion currently experienced in the city.
After much public engagement to solicit suggestions for the name of the bridge, Bay residents heeded the call with 222 submissions. These ranged from sports heroes to historical, local and national icons. An independent panel of adjudicators deliberated on a suitable name for the bridge.
The selection panel comprised Ward 5 Councillor, Sandile Rwexana, PR Councillor, Andries van der Westhuizen, South End Museum Administrator, Collin Abrahams and a community representative.
According to the MBDA’s CEO, Ashraf Adams, the completion of this iconic landmark has been achieved at a time when the MBDA recently concluded a major organisational restructuring process, as well as battling with a lack of funding for this financial year.
“We are still to receive grant funding for the year owing to an unsigned service delivery agreement.
“However, even with all those challenges, the MBDA has been able to ride the storm, pay suppliers, including SMMEs working on our sites, in order to deliver world-class services to Nelson Mandela Bay,” Adams said.
A total of eight entry level SMMEs were appointed to do civil work, paving, retaining walls and wheelchair ramps, with over R2.5 million worth of contracts awarded.
Adams said that the development will add another layer of tourism competitiveness, become an access way to opportunities to live, work and play in the Valley and to stand as a symbol of unity.
He added, “It is not just a big piece of infrastructure, look at how this new materials bridge stands here today. It is an example of what we can do when we plan properly, following the law and still finding innovative ways to support SMMEs so they can grow and flourish.”
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Deputy Mayor, Thsonono Buyeye, attended the opening and highlighted the significance of the bridge.
Buyeye said, “Bridges are a powerful and significant feature, symbolising a connection. These are a symbol of cooperation and harmony in communities which demonstrates unity and progress. One aim, one claim – that’s what the launch of the bridge represents. The work executed by the MBDA from conceptualisation to completion of the bridge must be applauded.”
