Pedestrian safety has received a major boost following the completion of new sidewalks on Stonebridge Drive through the eThekwini Municipality’s Road Infrastructure Management and Engineering Services Directorates and Ward 48’s Capital Infrastructure Project (CIP).
The project was undertaken in response to longstanding concerns raised by residents regarding the lack of safe walkways along the busy road.
Ward 48 councillor Michelle Lutchmen said the project, which commenced on 17 June, was funded through the ward’s CIP allocation after the relevant municipal department was unable to undertake the work due to budget constraints.
“Commencing on 17 June, this project was a direct response to urgent resident requests. This was a longstanding concern due to the eThekwini Municipality’s Road Infrastructure Management and Engineering Services Directorates lacking the necessary budget to address it. I intervened by allocating funds from the CIP budget to ensure the sidewalks were completed and pedestrian safety was improved.
“To prioritise community development, we ensured that the labour force was sourced locally, providing job opportunities for residents within the area. All administrative oversight and execution were handled through the established municipal project procedures,” she said.
Lutchmen also clarified how the ward’s Capital Infrastructure Project budget is administered following questions from residents.
“The CIP budget provides each ward in the eThekwini Municipality with R3 million per financial year to address urgent, high-priority infrastructure projects. It is important to clarify that as ward councillor, I don’t hold or manage these funds personally. All procurement, final processes and project implementation are strictly executed by the relevant municipal officials and the Finance Department upon departmental approval.”
She explained that once residents raise concerns, projects are submitted to the Speaker’s Office before being referred to the relevant municipal departments for consideration and implementation.
Lutchmen also thanked the municipal department for its support and contribution towards improving pedestrian safety in the community.
