City provides update on Phase 2 of the Lilian Ngoyi Street upgrade

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27-03-2026
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Joburg.org.za
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The City of Johannesburg convened a stakeholder engagement session on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to provide a comprehensive progress update on Phase 2 of the Lilian Ngoyi Street rehabilitation project. The session brought together officials from the City's Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (CRUM) Department, the Johannesburg Roads Agency, and other key departments, alongside local stakeholders, including business owners, property owners, and representatives of informal traders.

Ward councillors Sthembiso Hlatshwayo (Ward 59) and  Sihle Nguse (Ward 60) were also in attendance.

JRA Project Manager Jeff Maluleke said Phase 2 of the project is in line with the overall schedule, with construction currently at 70% completion. It remains on track for completion by August 2026. Activities underway include site clearing and grubbing, milling and removal of existing asphalt, excavation works, installation and upgrading of sewer, water and stormwater infrastructure, road construction and sidewalks, paving, as well as the removal and installation of electrical lighting and traffic signals.

He said the project is currently experiencing an 18% delay due to heavy rainfall over the past two weeks and challenges related to the removal of existing services. However, the contractor is implementing a catch-up plan to accelerate progress. Current work is focused on the sections between Ntemi Piliso and Loveday streets (Phase 2A), and Kruis and End streets (Phase 2B).

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department also addressed by-law enforcement matters affecting the area.

However, businessman Riaz Mahomed expressed frustration over the prolonged construction period and its impact on businesses, noting that many are suffering financially. He further raised concerns about broader infrastructure issues, including blocked drains and damaged facilities, as well as safety challenges. He said that frequent power outages have compromised security systems, leading to an increase in break-ins, and appealed to JMPD for increased patrols, particularly at night.

CRUM Regional Director Irene Mafune said that inspections have been completed on 45 buildings located along Lilian Ngoyi and De Villiers streets. Many of these buildings require significant upgrades by property owners, including the replacement of sewer pipes, repainting, repair of broken windows, cleaning of stained façades, and removal of illegal advertising.

She encouraged property owners to ensure tenant compliance with applicable regulations and reaffirmed the City's commitment to ongoing stakeholder engagement to address the challenges raised.