GORDON’S BAYY– A R373.7 million road upgrade between the N2 and Faure Marine Drive is progressing, with the Western Cape Government aiming to improve road safety, traffic flow and connectivity in the Gordon’s Bay area.

The Department of Infrastructure began construction on the Sir Lowry’s Pass Road (MR108) upgrade in April 2026, with completion scheduled for April 2028, subject to favourable construction conditions.

The project will see approximately 4.57 km of the existing single-carriageway road reconstructed into a dual carriageway, alongside improvements to intersections, adjoining roads, stormwater infrastructure and street lighting.

Work underway on major road upgrade

Construction activities are progressing across several areas, including earthworks, preparation for the new carriageway and the relocation and protection of existing services.

Temporary widening of road shoulders has also been undertaken to accommodate construction activities, while work continues on the right-hand-side carriageway.

The project is being carried out in stages to limit disruption to motorists and maintain access to affected properties.

According to the department, two-way traffic is intended to remain in place throughout construction, using existing road sections, temporary diversions or completed portions of the upgraded road.

17 intersections to be upgraded

The upgrade includes the reconstruction of 17 intersections, with 10 set to receive traffic signals. A roundabout will also be constructed at the intersection of Sir Lowry’s Pass Road and Faure Marine Drive.

Additional traffic lanes and intersection improvements are planned along Faure Marine Drive, while Kleineryk Road, Mountain Stream Road and Aqua Road will be upgraded and surfaced.

Further work will include improvements to the Old MR108, access roads and service roads, as well as new street lighting along the full length of the upgraded route.

Stormwater drainage, retaining structures, road signs, road markings and safety barriers will also be improved.

The department says the upgrades are intended to make travel safer and more efficient while improving access for surrounding communities, residents and businesses.

Job opportunities and local businesses

The project is also expected to create employment opportunities and support local enterprises through targeted procurement.

To date, 33 work opportunities have been created against a project target of 230.

A total of 255 targeted-labour person-days have been recorded, compared with the target of 29,000, while procurement expenditure with targeted enterprises has reached R2.5 million against a target of R81.2 million.

Infrastructure investment for the region

Tertius Simmers, Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure, said the project was about more than widening a road, highlighting its role in improving safety, connectivity and economic opportunities.

“Every road investment must ultimately make a difference in people’s daily lives. This R373.7 million project is about more than widening a road. It is about improving safety, strengthening connectivity and creating opportunities for people and businesses through infrastructure delivery,” Simmers said.

He said the department was encouraged by the construction activities already underway and remained focused on delivering quality infrastructure while managing the impact on motorists, residents and businesses.

Simmers also highlighted cooperation with the City of Cape Town and other stakeholders, including SANRAL, regarding the future Firlands N2 Bypass interchange.

He said the collaboration was aimed at ensuring infrastructure investments addressed current needs while supporting future transport connectivity.

Motorists urged to exercise caution

The department acknowledged that construction along an existing road corridor could cause inconvenience to motorists, residents and businesses.

Traffic accommodation measures will be implemented in stages to maintain movement and access wherever practicable.

Motorists travelling along Sir Lowry’s Pass Road are urged to exercise caution, observe temporary road signs and follow traffic management arrangements for the duration of the construction.

The R373.7 million project is scheduled for completion in April 2028, subject to favourable construction conditions.

ALSO READ: Storm briefly shuts Clarence Drive, N2 remains under caution.