The Western Cape Government’s Department of Infrastructure is making impressive strides in its ambitious R373.7 million upgrade of Sir Lowry’s Pass Road (MR108), Cape {town} Etc reports.
Originally published via Cape {town} Etc
According to the department, this aims not only to enhance road safety but also to improve traffic flow and accessibility within the bustling Gordon’s Bay area.
With construction that began in April 2026 and is expected to wrap up by April 2028 – pending favourable conditions – the project marks a pivotal investment in the region’s infrastructure.
This extensive upgrade aims to transform approximately 4.57 km of the existing single-carriageway into a modern Class 2 dual carriageway between the N2 and Faure Marine Drive (R44).
In addition to the main thoroughfare, the project will also enhance adjacent roads, intersections, stormwater infrastructure, and street lighting, ensuring a comprehensive improvement to the overall transport network.
Since the onset of construction, workers have been busy implementing a variety of essential tasks. Key activities include:
- Earthworks and preparations for the new carriageway.
- Locating, protecting, and relocating existing services.
- Temporary widening of road shoulders to accommodate ongoing construction.
- Construction of the right-hand-side carriageway.
To mitigate disruptions, the project is being executed in stages. Authorities are determined to keep two-way traffic flowing throughout, using existing road sections, temporary diversions, or finished segments of the new dual carriageway.
This strategic approach aims to lessen traffic congestion while preserving access for residents and local businesses.
Boosting safety and connectivity
One of the standout features of the upgrade involves substantial enhancements to the existing road network, including:
- Reconstruction of 17 intersections, with 10 of these to be signalised.
- A new roundabout at the intersection of MR108 and Faure Marine Drive.
- Additional traffic lanes and improvements along Faure Marine Drive.
- Upgrading of Kleineryk Road, Mountain Stream Road, and Aqua Road surfaces.
- Overall enhancements to Old MR108 and various access and service roads.
- Improved street lighting throughout the upgraded MR108.
- Upgraded drainage, retaining structures, road signs, markings, and safety barriers.
Provincial Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, highlighted the importance of this investment, stating, ‘Every road investment must ultimately make a difference in people’s daily lives. This 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.’
Beyond the physical upgrades, the Sir Lowry’s Pass Road project is set to foster economic growth. The initiative focuses on cultivating employment opportunities and boosting local enterprises, showcasing encouraging early successes:
- 33 work opportunities created so far, against a target of 230.
- 255 targeted-labour person-days recorded, against an ambitious target of 29 000.
- R2.5 million in procurement spent with targeted enterprises, compared to a target of R81.2 million.
With effective alliances between the Western Cape Government, the City of Cape Town, and SANRAL concerning future infrastructure plans like the Firlands N2 Bypass interchange, stakeholders are paving the way for sustained growth and improved transport connectivity.
As construction progresses, the Department acknowledges that work on an existing roadway can lead to inconvenience. The ongoing stages of construction will focus on ensuring that traffic accommodation measures are implemented effectively, allowing for a seamless flow of vehicles.
Motorists are urged to exercise caution, follow temporary road signs, and comply with traffic management measures as the improvements unfold.
Originally published via Cape {town} Etc
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