RUSTENBURG RAPID TRANSPORT SYSTEM NEARS COMPLETION

Construction of the much-awaited Rustenburg Rapid Transport (RRT) system in South Africa is edging closer to a reality
says Municipal spokesperson David Magae

The planning processes for the construction RRT
project located in the North West Province of South Africa started in 2009 with
its full operation projected for 2015. Its initial objective was to place Rustenburg
at the front line of quality public transport and enabling other strategic
ideas such as intensifying the local economy through local content and jobs,
and creating interest for private investment.

The RRT system is expected to ferry 75,000 commuters
daily when operating at full capacity. To date, construction of the RRT
project’s road network that is complete, includes 25 km of bus-ways running
between Corridor A – R104 and Corridor B – R 510 plus the CBD, with a total of
18 station sub-structures.

A mix of the existing mixed traffic lanes have also
been upgraded as a direct result of the project  as well as installation
of traffic signals designed for the integrated bus service in all areas of
construction.

In addition, 40 km of walkways and cycle lanes
dedicated to non-motorized transport have been constructed in the greater
Tlhabane region and the CBD. Mr. David Magae said that the motorist-free walkways
would ensure that people access bus stops and stations with no hindrances,
encouraging the use of public transport.

The Rustenburg Rapid Transport (RRT) system project has been behind schedule due litigation on a major infrastructure component, the central station, owing to the town-planning process, complex and lengthy stakeholder engagements, as well as negotiations with the taxi industry, including their understanding and buy-in to the business proposals for bus operator contracts as well as community buy-in and support. https://constructionreviewonline.com/2019/07/rustenburg-rapid-transport-system-in-south-africa-nears-completion/