A first-of-its-kind street experiment is transforming Cape Town's Bree Street, aiming to rethink how public space functions in the CBD.
Launched on Thursday, May 7, as part of the Safe Passage Program, the new 'safe passage precinct' pilot will run over the next six months, testing ways to make the popular inner-city street safer, greener, and more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, and businesses.
The project, led by Young Urbanists, a non-profit, with support from SDI Trust and the City of Cape Town, narrows Bree Street to one lane in each direction while introducing dedicated loading bays, additional seating, greenery, and temporary public space installations.
Speaking to the CapeTowner at the launch, the City's mayoral committee member for community services and health, Francine Higham, said the project highlights the importance of collaboration in improving urban spaces.
She noted that the City’s Recreation and Parks Department partnered with several organisations to plant 18 trees along the route, including olive and water pear trees, alongside flowering ground cover.
Creative director Vincent Truter described the initiative as an opportunity for people to reconnect with the city.
“What we’re doing here is essentially a street experiment that creates more public space for us all to connect in,” he said.
The temporary redesign will be monitored and adjusted based on public feedback and how the space is used over time.
Find Capetowner on TikTok @thecapetowner or Instagram @ccmonlineza
