JRA delays Lilian Ngoyi Street reopening after cash-flow problems
Cash-flow problems have delayed the reopening of Lilian Ngoyi Street in Johannesburg, with the JRA now saying the road should be completed by October 31, two months later than planned.
Johannesburg motorists and businesses will face further delays in the reopening of Lilian Ngoyi Street, formerly Bree Street, due to cash-flow issues affecting the rehabilitation work. The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has now projected completion by October 31, 2026, rather than the initially planned end of August. This revised deadline comes as the JRA's self-imposed August 30 target for Phase 2 of the 1.8km stretch between Ntemi Piliso and End streets approaches. The second phase resumed on August 28 after resolving cash-flow constraints.
Phase 1, completed in September 2025, focused on beautifying the street after the July 19, 2023 methane gas explosion that killed one person and injured several others. JRA spokesperson Bertha Peters-Scheepers confirmed that payments to contractors have been finalized, enabling the project to regain momentum.
The JRA's revised completion date hinges on timely payments to service providers. The contractor is currently upgrading the road surface, stormwater infrastructure, and sidewalk extensions between Ntemi Piliso and End streets. The work aims to align the road layout with a recently reconstructed 450m section reopened in September 2025.
JRA CEO Zweli Nyathi stated that major works are expected to be completed before the October rains, allowing time for the installation of bus stops, street furniture, and landscaping. The JRA assured road users, residents, businesses, and stakeholders that the project will remain on track without further delays beyond October 2026.
To minimize traffic disruption, localized closures on Lilian Ngoyi Street and partial closures on adjacent roads will continue until the end of October as part of the JRA's acceleration plan. Each closed section will be progressively reopened as work is completed. Intersections will remain operational throughout the closures.
Johannesburg's Minister for Transport, Kenny Kunene, emphasized the city's commitment to resolving cash-flow challenges to ensure service delivery continuity and support vital road infrastructure projects. The JRA expressed gratitude to motorists, residents, and local business owners for their continued patience and cooperation.
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