The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has announced that plans to widen 17th Avenue will proceed from the end of September.
The closed-off area will be opened for traffic, while the municipality closes the Walmer side for widening.
Once the widening on the Walmer side is complete, the municipality will resurface both sides and install a centre island.
The road eventually will slope to the middle, with stormwater drains being installed at the centre.
This will avoid the installation of unnecessary drain covers in the road. The aim is to complete the project before December 2023.
Ward 6 councillor, Gert Engelbrecht, said that 17th Avenue is the link to many busy popular roads, including Buffelsfontein, Main, Circular Drive and William Moffett Expressway.
“The recent rapid transformation in the area has turned William Moffett Expressway into a prime business zone, now recognised as the newest commercial hub in Gqeberha. In addition, we have also seen an influx in businesses along Circular Drive,” said Engelbrecht.
“Along with the positive continuing development in the area comes increased traffic, which is why the 17th Avenue upgrade is essential. Considering that 17th Avenue is a link to these roads that possibly endure the highest traffic count in the city, this project will contribute to the economic and social well-being of the community because of improved mobility,” he explained.
Although most citizens are excited about the new development, others have raised concerns on social media that the timeline sounds too good to be true. However, Councillor Engelbrecht has assured the public that everything should go as planned, and if it does not, a back-up plan has been put in place.
“It is anticipated that the project will be completed by December. However, should there be a delay in the completion of the project, the contractor has given assurances that the road will be reopened for the festive season, until the team returns to complete the work in the New Year,” concluded Engelbrecht.
