12 May 2011 Mayor promotes safety on NMT routes
The Executive Mayor of Cape Town, Alderman Dan Plato, recently visited the upgraded Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) infrastructure in Khayelitsha to encourage road safety among pedestrians and cyclists. Whilst inspecting the infrastructure, the Mayor handed out reflective wrist bands to pedestrians and cyclists using the route.
“The City’s vision is that Cape Town will be a city where all people feel safe and secure to walk and cycle; where NMT is part of the transport system; public space is shared between all users; and where everyone has access to urban opportunities and mobility. An important goal in realising this vision is to encourage cycling and walking by creating a safe and pleasant bicycle and pedestrian network to serve all the citizens of Cape Town,” said Mayor Plato.
Recently completed NMT infrastructure in the Athlone, Gugulethu, Nyanga and Khayelitsha areas were all officially launched in the second half of 2010.
“The City of Cape Town recognises the need to educate all residents including motorists, cyclists and pedestrians about road safety. My visits form part of an ongoing strategy to minimise road accidents and encourage public safety,” said Mayor Plato.
The Mayor also inspected the restructured urban public space that has created a livable and vibrant community environment which aims to promote a feeling of safety and security in the area. This project was part of the Expanded Public Works Programme, making use of local labour and sub-contractors with accredited training.
The project focused on:
- Universal access including for those with special needs
- Improved intersection design promoting road safety
- Traffic calming measures reducing the accident rate
- Informal trading areas promoting economic activity and job creation
- Enhancing the general experience through landscaping and unique street furniture