The Department of Transport and Public Works (DTPW) has started an R182-million upgrade of the MR344 (R102) between Hartenbos and Great Brak River, as well as the DR1578 between Tergniet and Wolwedans.

These roads have reached the end of their design lives and the work is expected to be completed by mid-2020.

The upgrades include a roundabout at an intersection on the R102; repairs to bridge structures; and the upgrading of culverts and street lighting.

The upgrade will accommodate the growth in traffic volumes as a result of the increase in the number of residences in the vicinity.

It will also provide a surfaced link between the communities of Wolwedans and Tergniet.

This road carries high volumes of heavy vehicles that serve the industrial developments located along the road.

Half-width construction (involving the closure of one lane) will take place in sections with stop / go controls to manage the traffic.

Motorists can expect a 15-minute wait at stop / go points.

During the project R17-million will be spent on targeted enterprises, R3-million on targeted local labour, and 36 000 person-days of work will be created for residents from the Mossel Bay municipal area.