The City of Cape Town has officially completed the second phase of the Kruskal Avenue upgrade in Bellville CBD, marking another significant step in the ambitious “Better Bellville Together” vision that’s transforming this vital economic hub.
On Monday 17 November they celebrated a project that has reimagined Kruskal Avenue as more than just a road upgrade. As Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews emphasised, “This avenue is not just another road upgrade. It is a corridor of purpose, a strategic spine linking Bellville Station, Elizabeth Park, the Tyger Valley District, and the many businesses and services that anchor this very important CBD.”
The transformation includes converting sections to one-way traffic with significantly widened sidewalks, creating a pedestrian-prioritised environment. Key improvements feature shared street design with continuous paving levels, enhanced safety through curb extensions, and comprehensive infrastructure upgrades including stormwater systems and public lighting.
Environmental enhancements have added 78 new trees, benches, tactile paving for accessibility, and automated irrigation systems, creating a greener, more welcoming urban space. The project has also addressed longstanding operational challenges near Shoprite/Middestad Mall, improving circulation and connectivity.
Despite facing significant obstacles including vandalism, aging underground infrastructure, and flooding challenges, the project team persevered. They faced multiple challenges—vandalism, disruptions to the services, and ageing infrastructure beneath the ground. But despite all these challenges, they managed to align the works and complete them.
Local traders have already noticed the positive impact. Long-time vendor Farieda Oriie observed, “I can see the difference. We were fighting endlessly for what we wanted—proper structures for formal trading.”
Looking ahead, the City plans to extend these improvements to South Street as part of the ongoing commitment to creating a thriving, connected, and opportunity-rich Bellville CBD for all residents, workers, and visitors.
