29-01-2013: Another milestone towards a people-centred transport system
The face of Johannesburg’s Public Transport system is continuously improving. The unveiling of Joburg’s new-look commuter shelters is another step in the direction of integration of public transport with a focus on the needs of commuters. The first two commuter shelters were unveiled on William Nichol Drive in Randburg and on Vincent Tshabalala Drive in Alexandra.
“This is an exciting day for the City of Johannesburg – because these shelters are meant for commuters from all modes – whether you are using a minibus taxi, Gautrain Bus, Metrobus or any other public transport service, commuters will be entitled to wait at these shelters”, said Councillor Rehana Moosajee – MMC for Transport in the City of Johannesburg.
“We are very proud of these iconic and sustainable structures which were designed by internationally acclaimed but home grown Joburg designer, Brian Steinhobel. These commuter shelters are universally accessible, provide seating, lighting and will include passenger information, she added. “The prototype design was taken out on an extensive public participation process in public transport hubs and received an overwhelming thumbs-up from the commuters of Johannesburg. The final product has encompassed the inputs received from the public”, said Moosajee.
Residents across the 7 regions of the City of Johannesburg can look forward to seeing these shelters in their areas as the rollout will continue until 1400 commuter shelters are erected across different areas of the city.
“Each shelter has the Transport values for Accountability, Co-Operation, Honesty, Respect and Ubuntu – incorporated into the design. We encourage residents to see these commuter shelters as their own and respect them,” urged Moosajee.
“The roll out of commuter shelters is another milestone in Joburg’s commitment to a people-centred transport system towards achieving our GDS goal of making walking, cycling and public transport the mode of choice by 2040,” said Moosajee.
The shelters are being rolled out in terms of a ten year contract that the City awarded to Public Transport Media (PTM). In exchange for manufacturing, erecting and maintaining the shelters, PTM will be able to place advertising at the shelters in a revenue sharing model with the City of Johannesburg. Moosajee has urged PTM to maintain these shelters so that they are a welcoming place that will provide comfort and dignity for commuters.
For further information contact: Ms. Tebogo Mogashoa, Stakeholder Liaison in the Office of MMC Moosajee on 072 631 3783 or tebogomoga@joburg.org.za">tebogomoga@joburg.org.za
