By Johnathan Paoli
Johannesburg’s inner city celebrated on Friday morning as Lilian Ngoyi Street was officially reopened to traffic after a closure of more than two years.
Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Zweli Nyathi described the redesign as part of a broader vision for the city’s transport system.
“The new Lilian Ngoyi Street design helps create a more balanced and efficient transport network, supporting nearby businesses, residents, and the overall vibrancy of our community. It ensures safe and convenient travel for everyone, from pedestrians and public transport users to motorists catering to people of all ages and abilities,” Nyathi said.
The road, one of the city’s busiest thoroughfares, was shut down following a devastating underground gas explosion in July 2023 that split the roadway in two, killing one person and injuring several others.
The reopening comes a week later than initially planned, after the city announced on 1 September that repairs had been completed but failed to make the road immediately accessible to motorists.
On Friday, however, the barriers finally came down, taxis and private cars poured onto the newly paved roadway, and residents and commuters marked the milestone with song and celebration.
The July 2023 gas explosion left a scar not only on the CBD’s infrastructure but also on the community that depended on the busy street.
Businesses along the road suffered financial losses, commuters were forced to find alternative routes, and the explosion left behind painful memories for the families of the victims.
For two years, Lilian Ngoyi Street remained a construction zone, with heavy machinery, scaffolding, and cordons dominating the area.
Repeated delays, including disputes with the first company contracted to handle repairs, meant the reopening deadline was pushed back several times, frustrating residents and businesses alike.
The City of Johannesburg has invested R82 million into the restoration of the street, opting for significant design changes in the process.
Instead of resurfacing with tar, as was the case previously, the city has paved the road with interlocking bricks, an approach officials argue will be more durable and environmentally sustainable in the long run.
Green safety nets and construction equipment were still visible on Friday morning, with some road markings yet to be painted.
City officials explained that these finishing touches form part of the next phase of the rehabilitation project, but emphasised that the road is safe and ready for use.
The JRA confirmed that the newly reconstructed section between Loveday and End streets will function as a one-way, eastbound road.
Intersections with Rissik, Joubert, Eloff, Von Brandis, and Wanderers streets are now open, while access to and from Loveday Street and Kruis Street will remain closed for the time being.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has deployed officers to manage the transition.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said traffic officers will be stationed at key intersections to direct motorists and assist pedestrians.
“The JMPD’s primary responsibility will be to ensure a smooth transition to the new traffic flow and enforce by-laws to maintain order and safety for all road users. We urge all road users to exercise patience and caution. Motorists should adhere to the new traffic signals and road markings. Pedestrians and cyclists must utilise the newly designed sidewalks and designated crossing points,” Fihla explained.
Officials also urged motorists to adjust their driving to the new road layout, pay attention to signal changes, and remain mindful of increased pedestrian activity in the area.
For many residents and commuters, the reopening of Lilian Ngoyi Street was a moment of relief.
Dozens of minibus taxis were among the first vehicles to use the restored road on Friday morning, with drivers hooting in celebration.
Pedestrians gathered along the sidewalks, singing and clapping as traffic flowed for the first time since the explosion.
Local businesses, many of which reported financial strain during the street’s closure, also welcomed the development, expressing hope that foot traffic and customer access will now return to pre-2023 levels.
Friday’s reopening marks the completion of Phase 1 of the rehabilitation project.
The city has announced that Phase 2 will focus on aesthetic upgrades to make the corridor more visually appealing and pedestrian-friendly.
This includes improved lighting, landscaping, and the creation of public spaces designed to enhance safety and livability in the CBD.
While the project has faced criticism for delays, officials insist that the reopening of Lilian Ngoyi Street signals progress in efforts to revitalise Johannesburg’s inner city.
The JRA has thanked residents, commuters, and businesses for their patience throughout the two-year period.
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