GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The Department of Transport and Public Works (DTPW) says it is making good progress in the project to upgrade the R102 between Hartenbos and Great Brak River as well as the portion between Tergniet and Wolwedans.

This is despite being delayed by two months.

This R182 million project started in January 2018 and is expected to be completed by mid-2020.

Construction activities are being undertaken simultaneously in a number of areas, with stop/go controls to manage the flow of traffic where necessary.

Spokesperson, Byron la Hoe says the constructor experienced two unexpected setbacks. "Firstly, a high water table and unfavourable soil conditions slowed down the construction of a new culvert at Riverside.

"Secondly, there have been delays in the delivery of final road layer works materials to the site. Despite these setbacks, the contractor is on track to complete the works by the scheduled completion date."

The following arrangements have been put in place with effect from 13 December to facilitate increased traffic flow over the holiday period:

The newly surfaced R102 will be open between the Monte Christo intersection and Riverside. There will, however, be restricted width two-way traffic lanes between the Monte Christo intersection and Swan's Nursery.

The R102 through Riverside will be open to two-way traffic. Every effort is being made to complete the Riverside culvert in time to make two-way traffic possible across the culvert over the holidays.

The section of the R102 between Impala Road and the Tergniet/ Sorgfontein intersection will be closed to traffic. Through traffic will have to use the N2 or Impala Road between Tergniet and Fraaiuitsig/Little Brak River.

The contractor aims to surface a section of the road to enable access off the R102 to Reebok Village Estate and the Groenkloof Retirement Village.

A newly surfaced section of the R102 between Tergniet and Great Brak River has been opened to traffic.

During the holiday period, two-way traffic will be possible on restricted-width lanes through this section.

The Long Street/R102 intersection at De Dekke will be managed as a three-way stop.

The DR1578 to Sorgfontein will not be surfaced but will be open to two-way traffic.

Temporary signage, delineation and road marking will be in place to guide motorists, especially on the restricted-width areas of the R102.

A traffic management team will be on standby throughout the holiday period.

The department apologises for the inconvenience caused during this time.

Motorists are encouraged to exercise caution when driving through sections under construction over the holiday period. For public queries during this period, contact 087 551 1528.

Join the Department on Twitter @WCGovTPW under the hashtag #roadworksWC.