Overview
he EcoMobility World Festival 2015 will take place in Sandton, Johannesburg – the vibrant heart of South Africa – in October. The Festival will offer a view of the City in the future, with active street life and social inclusivity, served by a sustainable transport system.
Johannesburg’s Executive Mayor, Mpho Parks Tau, says the Festival will demonstrate to the world that an ecomobile future is possible and that public transport, walking and cycling can be accessible, safe and attractive.
Decongesting our cities in general and the Sandton CBD is not only possible, it is essential if we want to continue to move freely in urban environments.
The Festival will enable residents and visitors from across the globe to experience what a future, car-free precinct would look and feel like.
A core part of the Sandton CBD use will be closed for regular traffic for the duration of the Festival. Residents, workers, the business community and visitors will, however, have full access to the entire precinct through expanded public transport and arrangements to encourage cycling and pedestrian activities.
A comprehensive traffic management plan is in place to minimise the temporary impact of disruptions and to keep the public informed about alternative arrangements. The decision to host the Festival was taken following technical studies and a comprehensive process of consultation with stakeholders and it enjoys the support of organised business.
The attention of the global community will be focused on Sandton in the weeks leading up to, and during, the festival. What happens in Sandton in October 2015 will provide direction to global efforts to promote EcoMobility and sustainable transport systems.
Within South Africa the Festival will promote the concepts of inclusivity and social cohesion. The urban hub of Sandton will be linked to the adjacent township of Alexandra and many of the events are designed to integrate these diverse neighbourhoods.
The infrastructure provided by the City to support the Festival –and the visionary plans to expand sustainable public transport systems within Johannesburg – will combine to leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.You can also be a part of this.
Johannesburg’s most famous former resident, and Freeman of the City, the late Nelson Mandela, one referred to it as “… this town of vibrancy and activity.” In October 2015 Joburg will live up to this promise.