After more than two years of planning, design and construction, the City of Cape Town has launched new infrastructure and facilities that will make pedestrian and bicycle access within the central city safer, easier and more fun. Forming part of the Fan Walk, these facilities will be an enduring legacy after the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

The 5km round trip, which has been designed with universal access in mind, connects the central city with Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town Station and Green Point Urban Park. The sign-posted route (including traffic signals for bicycles) follows Waterkant Street, crosses Buitengracht Street via the new pedestrian bridge, and continues along Somerset Road to the elevated circle and Stadium Forecourt.

The new pedestrian bridges feature lifts for disabled access; and the route intersects with the recently completed MyCiti bus station on Western Boulevard.

It was launched with much noise and celebration on Wednesday 9 June when dozens of City of Cape Town transport staffers and NMT (non-motorised transport) activists took to the route en-masse, dressed in high-visibility bibs emblazoned with the words ‘Respect cyclists and pedestrians’. The launch coincided with South Africa’s collective decision to blow vuvuzelas at noon, which gave the walking party even more cheer and festivity.

Cape Town’s urban heritage is on display, for visitors and locals alike, with information plaques placed at strategic sites. Truth Café, at historic St Andrew’s Square, provides a welcome rest spot (with interesting installation artwork on display).