City of Johannesburg launches Vlakfontein Super Stop Facility to enhance public transport
The City of Johannesburg has taken a major step towards improving public transportation in Region G with the launch of the Vlakfontein Super Stop Facility officially opened on Wednesday, 30 October.
The R32 million facility, developed by the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) on behalf of the City’s Transport Department, aims to provide a safer, more accessible, and efficient commuting experience for residents of Vlakfontein and surrounding areas.
The launch was attended by notable dignitaries, including Cllr. Eunice Mgcina, Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Development Planning, Cllr. Kenny Kunene, MMC for Transport, and JDA CEO Mr. Themba Mathibe. These leaders joined Regional Director Mr. Mickey Padiachee in celebrating the facility’s opening, an event that aligns with the City’s Transport Month initiatives.
The Vlakfontein Super Stop Facility is strategically located on Freedom Drive, a high-traffic area for both pedestrians and taxis. Designed to streamline pick-ups and drop-offs, the facility provides essential amenities including a guard house, office buildings, ranking areas, ablution facilities, taxi holding areas, and pedestrian walkways. External works include landscaping, stormwater drainage, water and sewer reticulation, and boundary fencing—all enhancing safety and accessibility for commuters.
The project has also improved the public environment along key routes leading to the facility, accommodating the needs of taxis, traders, and pedestrians. By creating a safer and more visually appealing environment, these upgrades have further enhanced the area’s functionality.
Speaking on the importance of this facility, MMC for Development Planning, Cllr. Eunice Mgcina, highlighted the project’s role in economic empowerment through local job creation: “The JDA has implemented this facility and ensured that the community benefitted from the construction. We had a total of 14 local SMMEs and 8 local labourers who were appointed, with the total SMME expenditure exceeding R5 million,” she said. This approach was part of the JDA’s commitment to using labour-intensive methods under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
MMC for Transport, Cllr. Kenny Kunene, expressed enthusiasm for the new facility, underscoring its role in supporting the city’s taxi industry: “Establishing additional facilities like this enhances service delivery for our citizens and supports the taxi industry as an integral part of Johannesburg’s transport network.”
Key stakeholders such as Mr. Abram Mashishi, Chairperson of Gauteng South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO), and members of the Enerdale Taxi Association (ETA) were also present, reflecting the critical role of collaboration in Johannesburg’s transport sector.
The Vlakfontein Super Stop Facility represents Johannesburg’s dedication to bridging communities and essential services through strategic development, ultimately reinforcing the City’s vision of a more connected and efficient transport infrastructure in Region G.