The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), on behalf of the City of Johannesburg’s (CoJ’s) transport department, is nearing completion of the Selby bus rapid transit (BRT) depot, which the CoJ says is a key upgrade to strengthen the efficiency and reliability of the Rea Vaya BRT system.

According to the JDA, the depot, located in Selby, south of the Johannesburg central business district, will have the capacity to accommodate up to 270 buses, serving as a centralised facility for both major and minor maintenance of in-service and out-of-service public transport vehicles.

This infrastructure development, according to the CoJ, will reduce the distance between depots and route starting points, enabling buses to enter service more quickly and will also serve to improve public transport operational efficiency.

The depot will serve as the central hub of Rea Vaya operations, incorporating workshop facilities and refuse buildings.

These facilities are intended to improve the reliability of the CoJ’s public transport system.

The administration block, currently in its final construction phase, will house the Intelligent Transport System control centre.

Other infrastructure will include bus brake testing facilities, spray booths, automatic and manual washing stations, and a refuelling system with AdBlue dispensers, which the CoJ says will ensure compliance with international standards for sustainable transit operations.

In addition to technical facilities, the CoJ reports that the administration building will include new offices, boardrooms, meeting rooms, a canteen and a gymnasium for staff.

The CoJ notes that the design of the building is aimed at modernising operational support for the depot while creating a work environment that enables efficient day-to-day management of Rea Vaya services.

“The Selby BRT depot represents a significant milestone in Johannesburg's commitment to building a safe, reliable and accessible public transport system. “Its completion will not only enhance the efficiency of the Rea Vaya network but also lay the groundwork for a more connected and sustainable city,” says JDA CEO Themba Mathibe.