The City of Johannesburg will host its first Open Streets Sunday on 12 April 2026, closing a section of Main Street in Marshalltown, Johannesburg CBD, to vehicular traffic. The route, between Ntemi Piliso and Rissik streets, will be open only to pedestrians and non-motorised activities.
Open Streets Sundays offers residents the opportunity to experience Main Street in a completely new way, with activities such as walking, cycling and skateboarding, alongside family-friendly and cultural experiences. Designated zones will include children's play areas, sports activations, arts and live music performances, as well as a food court at Gandhi Square.
Joburg's Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport, Councillor Kenny Kunene, says open streets are community-based programmes that temporarily close selected roads to vehicles, allowing people to use these spaces freely.
“This initiative supports local businesses and community organisations, creating an environment where residents can rediscover their city, connect and participate in activities that build a sense of belonging without the disruption of traffic," he says.
The initiative is a partnership between the City of Johannesburg, Jozi My Jozi, Young Urbanists NPC, the Johannesburg Inner City Partnership, and Johannesburg In Your Pocket. One of the key objectives of Open Streets is to promote and harmonise the shared use of public space among all road users.
Joburg's Executive Director of Transport, Lutando Maboza, says the programme reflects the City's vision for a more people-centred urban environment. “Open Streets on Main Street represents the kind of city we are building – one that prioritises safe public spaces and active mobility, while supporting healthier, more inclusive and vibrant communities."
The Transport Department continues to promote a culture of tolerance among pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and informal traders who share urban spaces.
MMC Kunene has encouraged residents, including those from outside the inner city, to attend. “Come take a family stroll, enjoy an art exhibition or browse a book stall, listen to live music or simply relax. It's a chance to reconnect with the inner city and create new memories."
Security personnel and street marshals will be deployed along the route to ensure public safety. The initiative forms part of the City's broader efforts to revitalise the inner city through improved service delivery, enhanced policing, the reclamation of hijacked buildings, and strengthened by-law enforcement under the leadership of Executive Mayor, Councillor Dada Morero.
09/04/2026
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