Mike Pienaar, Fourways Mall Management, explains that powering up the traffic lights surrounding the centre is a crucial first step in ensuring the entire node is more enjoyable for shoppers and commuters.

"Our commitment to the Fourways community extends beyond the walls of the centre. By connecting these traffic lights to our backup power supply, we aim to provide a smooth and safe driving experience for everyone who passes by and look forward to making a positive impact on our neighbourhood," says Pienaar. 

The mall says that this latest initiative will ensure the traffic lights at the following intersections around the mall will remain operational during load shedding: 

  • Cedar Road and Witkoppen Road
  • Cedar Road and Fourways Boulevard
  • Fourways Boulevard and Winnie Mandela
  • Fourways Boulevard and Percy Road
  • Fourways Boulevard and Short Street, and
  • Fourways Boulevard and Ruby Close. 

The connection process (being done in collaboration with Gauteng provincial government for the first three and Johannesburg Road Agency for the latter three) is currently in its final stages, and is expected to significantly improve traffic flow in the area, adds the mall. 

In addition to connecting the traffic lights to its backup power, Fourways Mall says it will also be installing Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems to ensure seamless operation. The UPS will cover any immediate power drops, preventing the traffic lights from going out unexpectedly. This dual system will guarantee that the traffic lights will continue to function smoothly, switching seamlessly to Fourways Mall's backup power when needed.

With ongoing concerns over traffic light vandalism in the Gauteng area and unauthorised individuals switching the traffic lights off to self-direct traffic, Fourways Mall adds that it will work closely with local security companies, local Government and other property owners in the node, to monitor and manage the situation. New measures to be implemented include alerts on traffic lights to detect tampering and prompt intervention by security personnel.

"The successful execution of this project has been possible thanks to the collaborative efforts of our partners. The Gauteng Provincial Government and the Johannesburg Roads Agency have been instrumental in redesigning the signal wiring to facilitate the secondary power connection. Additionally, the support and involvement of Councillor David Foley has been crucial in bringing this initiative to fruition," says Pienaar.

"We look forward to continuing our pursuit of neighbourhood improvement and reinforcing our role as a responsible and engaged member of the Fourways community," Pienaar concludes.

For more information, visit www.fourwaysmall.com. You can also follow Fourways Mall on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor