THE Free State government has committed R1.9 billion towards the construction, upgrading, and maintenance of road infrastructure in a bid to bolster economic growth and connectivity across the province.
Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, delivering her State of the Province Address in Bloemfontein on Friday, emphasised the significance of efficient road networks in driving development and enhancing economic opportunities.
“Highways, railways and access roads connect people, cities, towns and rural areas, enhancing prospects of economic opportunities,” she said.
“We are inspiring confidence to bolster growth and development. And time will be the judge of our work.”
Among the major road projects set for completion are the Zastron-Sterkspruit, Rosendal-Ficksburg, Jacobsdal-Koffiefontein, Koffiefontein-Luckhoff-Havenga Bridge, Harrismith SEZ and Viljoenskroon-Orkney routes.
The province has also allocated R993 million for special road maintenance, primarily to address rapid road deterioration caused by increased freight transport.
The premier highlighted the strengthening partnership with the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), which has led to significant employment and economic opportunities.
“As we have committed last year, our partnership with SANRAL is growing stronger,” Letsoha-Mathae stated.
“This has created massive employment and economic opportunities in the province.
“It is expected that these opportunities will continue to grow into the foreseeable future.”
The upgrade of the N1 from Zandkraal to Scottland is among the key projects expected to generate jobs and sub-contracting opportunities.
Additionally, the Thaba Nchu-Tweespruit road is expected to have a similar impact.
The premier also noted that the transfer of 634 km of road network to SANRAL has resulted in the creation of 1 570 jobs.
Through the Welisizwe Rural Bridge Programme, four bridges have been completed in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force, with an additional R210 million allocated for the next financial year to accelerate the implementation of this programme.
“These are the bridges of opportunities,” Letsoha-Mathae said.
“We will soon commence engagements with the national Department of Public Works to find alternative ways to accelerate the implementation of the Welisizwe Rural Bridges Programme.”
The Free State government is currently undertaking construction, repairs and maintenance projects on several roads, with a combined budget of R758 million.
Further investment of R250 million has been earmarked for new road projects set to begin in the first quarter of the 2025/26 financial year.
“This is the change we want to see, and the change we are delivering,” Letsoha-Mathae said. – Staff Reporter