N14 upgrade to cost R295m

Htonl via Wikimedia Commons

"We have to upgrade the N14 as it is a critical arterial route from the southern and western regions of Gauteng to the north, which is used for daily workplace travelling and freight transport," said Roads and Transport MEC Ismail Vadi.

Gauteng Premier David Makhura and MEC Vadi launched the project to upgrade the N14 on Wednesday.

The multi-million rand project will repair the N14 to achieve a new design life of 20 years, provide employment and skills development opportunities during the construction phase.

It will also enable training and economic empowerment for local contractors, and improve the road safety features on the freeway.

"Basically, we will be giving a new lease of life to a very busy freeway and there will be no toll fees," MEC Vadi said.

He appealed to motorists to be patient and take extra care while driving because of the construction work. "Road construction takes time and there will be no shortcuts. Motorists are advised that their traveling times will be affected and they should plan accordingly," MEC Vadi said.

He said the department was busy planning the Phase 2 of the N14 upgrade which will eventually link with the N1.