Good news for residents in and around Delta Park.
The City of Johannesburg has announced that the much-loved Blue Bridge will soon reopen. The city has approved emergency rehabilitation work.
"Work has already started, with the contractor currently in the preparation and site set-up phase," said Samantha Herman, the Vice Chairperson Craigpark Residents' Association Committee.
The Blue Bridge is expected to return to its former glory in the coming months, ensuring it is both safe and accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, and park visitors. The repairs are expected to take approximately two months, depending on weather conditions. If all goes according to plan, residents could be crossing the bridge again by January.
"The City has advised that work is expected to be completed by December. While we appreciate the urgency of the project, the Craigpark Residents' Association feels that this timeline may be optimistic given the extent of the damage and the environmental sensitivities of the area. We hope the work will be completed as quickly as possible, but also safely and to a proper standard to avoid future failures," said Samantha.
This announcement comes as a relief to many Joburgers who have been frustrated for months following the bridge’s closure in March due to severe structural damage caused by heavy storms earlier this year. The bridge has served as a key link between the two sides of Delta Park for over 20 years.
On 5 March, the bridge suffered significant damage after intense flooding hit the area. A second storm on 26 March further exacerbated the situation, prompting authorities to declare the bridge a public health and safety hazard.
"Over the years, weather, flooding, and general wear have taken their toll on the structure, and unfortunately, no maintenance was done by the City on the bridge despite the ward councillor raising concerns regularly with the City. In March 2025, the bridge was battered by two significant storms, causing damage and making it unsafe, which forced its closure. After ongoing engagement between residents, the CRA, Ward Councillors, and City officials, the Johannesburg Roads Agency has now committed to repairing the structure at an estimated cost of R6 million," added Samantha.
Currently, residents have been using a temporary makeshift crossing.
"The damage has had a significant impact on residents, schoolchildren, dog walkers, runners, and cyclists who rely on the Blue Bridge to cross the Spruit safely. Delta Park is one of the most used outdoor spaces in Johannesburg, so the closure has disrupted daily routines and limited access to key walking and running routes.
"That said, our community is resilient and always finds a way. A kind resident built a temporary makeshift crossing, which has helped many people get across safely in the meantime," said Samantha.
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