Honestly, I never thought I’d see an initiative like this out of the City of Gold – even if it is the largest man-made forest in the world – but congrats!

For the month of October, Parks Tau, the mayor of Johannesburg, has declared Sandton a car-free zone. For 31 days, private commuters, who make up 70% of the 85 000 vehicles that travel in and out of the Sandton precinct during peak traffic hours, are encouraged to utilise public transport.

This is aligned with the City of Johannesburg’s EcoMobility World Festival.

Currently, the area is facing levels of congestion that in our opinion is unacceptable and unless we intervene, Sandton will turn into a parking lot, as has been projected by studies done in the City of Johannesburg.

Per capita, Johannesburg is the highest emitter on the African continent of CO2 emissions. We’ve made a commitment with our international partners and governments around the world to ensure that we reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

But don’t worry, you will still be able to drive into the area – if you wish. But vehicles that have full loads will be given priority and there will be road closures in the area.

There will be no through routes on West Street or Maude Street. The section of Maude Street from West to Rivonia will be a one way eastbound. Alice Lane, Gwen Lane and Maude Street between 5th and West Street will effectively be cul-de-sacs.

However, there will be allocated cycle routes for those who live close to the area and there are ample public transport options available.

You will be able to park your car in one of the 7 000 parking bays located outside of Sandton at shopping malls all over Johannesburg and 2 000 parking bays at malls closer to Sandton. These are listed as ‘Park and Ride’ sites:

And once you’re in Sandon you will be able to use transport options and walking routes:

However, if you can’t handle all this information now, an app will be available for download in October – VayaMoja – and it will have all the information you need to stay up to date with what’s up.

[source: enca]