SCMD has partnered with the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) for this pilot project that will help keep Sandton Central’s traffic lights working, no matter what.
Elaine Jack, City Improvement District Manager for Sandton Central, explains: “These UPS units form part a pilot project. Their durability will be tested as SCMD looks for the best way to ensure traffic signals in the district are always on.”
The SCMD sponsored UPS units have become the assets of JRA, which is responsible for maintenance of this equipment to operate the traffic signals during load-shedding by the power utilities.
The Sandton Central area has around 60 intersections governed by traffic signals. As South Africa’s energetic financial district - popular for business, living, tourism, entertainment and shopping - keeping the traffic flowing smoothly on its busy roads is a priority.
Jack reports that ensuring all traffic signals in Sandton Central are stabilised, using the most effective and sustainable solution, is the ultimate aim of this project.
Already, SCMD offers a number of services to keep traffic in the Sandton CBD flowing as smoothly as possible. This includes SCMD’s strategic partnership with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD). SCMD recently donated a vehicle to JMPD, which is dedicated to operating in the area with a two member JMPD team. This includes helping alleviate traffic congestion with traffic control. SCMD also provides the services of two teams of Outsurance pointsmen to help out on Sandton Central’s roads.
She adds: “Sandton Central strives to offer a well-managed space that functions excellently for the people who use it. Traffic signals that work, even during load-shedding and other power disruptions, are an important part of this. Ensuring continuous power supply to our traffic signals will help to keep traffic flowing and support the ongoing safety of pedestrians and cyclists in Sandton CBD.”
The six UPS units have already been installed at the intersections of:
· West Street and Fredman Drive
· West Street and Alice Lane
· West Street and Maude Street
· Rivonia Road and West Street
· Sandton Drive and Alice Lane
· Rivonia Road and Sandton Drive / Katherine Street
“All road users and property owners in Sandton Central will benefit from this initiative, which supports Sandton Central’s position at the forefront of leading central business districts in South Africa,” concludes Jack.
