The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) says the construction of the Rea Vaya bus rapid transit (BRT) depot, in Selby, is nearing completion, with Phases 2A and 2B complete, while Phase 2C remains under way.

Phase 2C of the Selby BRT depot's construction includes the facility's working space, which is now being refurbished and upgraded to include modern amenities. The scope of work includes the renovation of workshop spaces as well as the creation of a new canteen and gymnasium.

Further, the restoration of an existing administration block as part of Phases 1B and 1C of operations is being implemented.

The modern administration building will also include additional offices, administration rooms, boardrooms and storerooms, as well as a new main foyer and reception area and courtyard renovations. It will serve as a central management hub for bus operations, the JDA says.

The new Selby BRT depot is expected to improve the efficiency and reliability of the City of Johannesburg’s BRT system, while also servicing two Rea Vaya BRT operating companies for major and minor maintenance on in-service and out-of-service buses.

“Once complete, the Selby BRT depot will be fundamental to the Rea Vaya Phase 1C operations to include the trunk route from Sandton to Alexandra along Rivonia road and Katherine drive and the trunk route from Parktown to Alexandra along Louis Botha avenue,” says JDA CE Mokgema Mongane.

The scope of work will also include the building of extra toilet blocks, new lifts for accessibility, service ducts, pedestrian and vehicular access with security offices, and outdoor improvements.

"The Selby Rea Vaya BRT depot forms part of the JDA's accelerated infrastructure delivery programme aimed at effectively and efficiently delivering on the City's priority social and economic infrastructure," he says.

Once complete, the Selby BRT depot will be able to house up to 270 buses. Its location in the Johannesburg inner-city is intended to reduce dead mileage and the time lost by buses in traffic congestion between depots and route starting points.