​By Ntsako Mabunda
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) is undertaking strengthening and heavy rehabilitation works along the Golden Highway (R553) between Ennerdale and Eldorado Park in Johannesburg. 
It is estimated the project will be completed in twenty-one months.  
Rehabilitation works will benefit through improved road user mobility, reduced travel times, enhanced driving experience as well as improving general road safety.
The scope of work includes the excavation of 100mm of existing bituminous, gravel layers and stockpile materials for mechanical modification; pre-milling in situ layers to a depth of 250mm; reworking existing upper pavement layers; constructing new asphalt surfacing of 45mm thickness; constructing new gravel shoulders (2,4m wide) to the new raised levels; rehabilitate all intersections with the same pavement structure; excavating and replacing 45mm asphalt at Klip River bridge, including replacement of bridge joints; reinstating drainage, kerbs, channels, road signs, road markings and any other road furniture and finish the road reserve.
Consultations were conducted with the municipality, ward councillors, representatives of community structures, and broader community. This was essential to leverage trust, build relationships, and solicit partnerships for the project.
MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela indicated that all contractors working on Departmental projects should strive to at all times "deliver a quality product, on time and within budget". 
She added that "the Department maintains that investment in road infrastructure serves as a key stimulator of economic growth. It creates jobs and promotes social development".
The Department appeals for patience, understanding during the construction period and wishes to reassure motorists that safety on the road is a top priority.
Meanwhile, the Department announced it has since appointed New Employers Agent (Consulting Engineers) to review the designs and subsequently supervise the R82 construction project (Phase 3). The construction project is currently suspended due to the termination of the previous Employers Agent (Consulting Engineers).  
The Department expects the designs to be approved by end of May 2025 with construction resuming soon thereafter.