Cape Town’s iconic “bridge to nowhere” is finally set to be completed, nearly 50 years after construction halted. Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis announced plans to finish the Foreshore’s incomplete raised freeways, unlocking 15 hectares of prime land for a new mixed-use neighborhood.
A landmark project, decades in the making
The Foreshore Freeway Scheme, conceived in the late 1960s, began construction in the early 1970s. Work stopped abruptly in 1977 due to funding issues, leaving the bridges as a stark reminder of unfulfilled plans. Over time, they became a recognizable landmark, featured in films and urban legends, but also a physical barrier between the CBD and the harbor.
The Foreshore Precinct Project aims to transform this area with a new link bridge, an underground tunnel, and a waterfront promenade. It will proceed in two phases, keeping existing freeways open to avoid gridlock.
Unlocking prime real estate
It is expected to increase property values and leasing demand in nearby areas like De Waterkant, Green Point, and the V&A Waterfront. Developers will have opportunities as the City releases land parcels in stages through private partnerships.
Before construction, proposals must undergo public consultation, road scheme amendments, and heritage impact assessments. The City has launched foreshore.capetown for residents to stay informed and participate.
The project’s cost remains undisclosed and has faced criticism from a township development council, which argues funds should prioritize service delivery. However, plans for a new neighborhood in central Cape Town have sparked significant interest.
Construction’s first phase will start during the next council term, marking a new chapter for the iconic Foreshore.
Transforming Traffic Flow and Public Spaces
Phase one includes a new bridge over Buitengracht Street and widening the inbound raised freeway, linking directly to Helen Suzman Boulevard. This will allow Foreshore traffic to bypass the CBD, reducing congestion.
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Additional improvements include two inbound freeway lanes, a new outbound ramp from Buitengracht over Dock Road, and converting FW de Klerk Boulevard into a pedestrian-friendly street. Plans also feature a canal linking Buitengracht Park to the V&A Waterfront and a public park beneath the Buitengracht link bridge.
Long-Term Vision for a Reconnecting City
Phase two involves building an outbound tunnel on vacant land between the port and Customs House, connecting to the N1 and N2. The existing outbound viaduct will be demolished, creating a promenade, parks, and public spaces along the harbor edge.
The City is negotiating with Transnet for the required port land. This phase will continue until 2040, with neighborhood development extending beyond that. The project is viewed as a catalyst for growth over the next two to three decades.
Detailed engineering designs will follow final designs before procurement.
The City’s website, foreshore.capetown, allows residents to view proposals and register for public participation updates. While costs remain undisclosed, criticism from a township development council persists, advocating for service delivery funding.
Project Timeline and Criticism
The Foreshore project is a long-term initiative, with no immediate construction expected. No cost estimate has been released.
This project marks Cape Town’s most significant public road and transport upgrade since the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It coincides with the ongoing 42km expansion of the MyCiTi bus network to Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain.
