Universally accessible walking lanes, bicycle parking and other non-motorised transport (NMT) facilities are on the cards for Kensington, Factreton, Maitland and surrounding areas to improve road safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Residents can provide their input during the public participation process which is currently underway.
The commenting period will close on Thursday 31 August.
The City’s urban mobility directorate is rolling out various programmes to provide safer, more accessible non-motorised transport spaces for pedestrians and cyclists.
Leslie Swartz, chair of the Kensington Factreton Residents and Ratepayers Association (KFRRA), says they support the proposal to make roads more pedestrian and cyclist friendly.
But he says the intent of the bicycle parking is “overly ambitious”.
“Has sufficient research been done to motivate and justify such facilities and how will these facilities be managed to ensure the safety and safe keeping of bicycles?”
Responding to the NMT draft design plans, Swartz says: “Except for 16th Avenue all the proposed bicycle lanes are class-four cycle routes. No road widening is indicated. The cycle way is located within the carriage way.
“The applicable warning signs as proposed will not make high-volume public transport routes safe for cyclists and there is no control for cyclists at key intersections. The cycle routes except 16th Avenue do not have an exclusive use for cyclists and pedestrians.”
He calls on local government to instead prioritise the immediate needs of the marginalised community, like as addressing poverty, unemployment and gangsterism.
“While bicycle lanes and parking can contribute to a more sustainable and accessible city, these efforts should be balanced with providing essential support and infrastructure that directly address the pressing challenges faced by all communities.”
He says collaborative engagement and effective communication between the government and the community is crucial to ensure that resources are allocated where they are needed.
“This well-rounded approach would prioritise both infrastructure improvements and essential support to uplift the community’s overall well-being and quality of life.”
Rob Quintas, the Mayco member for urban mobility, urged residents to send their comments and recommendations.
“This expansion includes footways, signage and intersection improvements that are universally accessible.
“With the communities’ input, we can ensure that the improvements and infrastructure we implement suit their needs for enhanced safety and access.
“I want to add that up to 10% of people in Cape Town walk to their destinations. Their safety is one of our top-priorities.”
To comment, email Transport.News@capetown.gov.za or visit www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay, or deliver your comments by hand at one of the facilities listed below:
- Public Participation Unit, Third Floor, Podium Block, Civic Centre, 12 Hertzog Boulevard, Cape Town
- Kensington Library; Cnr 11th and Factreton avenues, Kensington
- Maitland Library; Cnr Colin and Voortrekker roads, Maitland
- Subcouncil 11; Dulcie September Civic Centre, cnr Protea and Klipfontein Road, Kewtown, Athlone
- Hanover Park Library; Cnr Hanover Park Avenue and Surran Road, Hanover Park.
