The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) celebrated the successful completion of Phase 1 of the emergency stormwater rehabilitation project in Sandown Mushroom Farm Park, Sandton, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on 26 March 2024.03.27. This project was prompted by heavy rains in 2020, which led to significant damage from flooding in Mushroom Park and overtopping at the Linden Street low-level river crossing, resulting in a tragic loss of life for a motorist. Zweli Nyathi, the acting CEO of JRA, outlined the scope of Phase 1, stating: “The damage caused by the 2020 floods necessitated emergency measures to protect public safety and infrastructure within Mushroom Farm Park, as well as at the low-lying bridge crossing on Linden Street.
“Emergency repairs aimed at mitigating future flood damage included the rehabilitation of stormwater erosion protection from the Mushroom Farm duck pond waterfall up to the park’s boundary at Linden Street, where four box culverts form a low-level river crossing. The total cost amounted to R13.6 million.”
Commencing in March 2023 and concluding in February 2024, the project generated numerous employment opportunities.
These included the appointment of one Community Liaison Officer, engagement of 35 participants in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and contracting five local SMME Sub-contractors for civil works.
Phase 2 of the project, scheduled to begin once funding becomes available, will focus on upgrading the outlet stormwater culvert from the duck pond at the intersection of West and Katherine streets to the section where the culvert opens east of Pretoria Avenue at Mushroom Farm Park.
Cllr Kenny Kunene, the Member of Mayoral Committee for Transport in the City of Johannesburg, emphasised the importance of Mushroom Park as a green sanctuary in the Sandton area, bringing joy to local residents and park visitors.
He highlighted the critical nature of JRA’s emergency flooding repairs in safeguarding the park and surrounding roads, ensuring continued community enjoyment in a secure environment.
Written by Kelebogile Mafa
27/03/2024