Improving commuter connectivity and digital services in George
BEACH PANTHER TRANSFER LOCATION LAUNCH
Ready to be “unwrapped”: Bus stops, with covered bus shelters at the upgraded Beach Panther Transfer Facility in Pacaltsdorp are already in use but were officially “unwrapped” during a ceremony officiated by Minister Sileku.
On Tuesday, 24 February 2026, Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku joined officials from GO GEORGE and the George Municipality for a series of events with the George Integrated Public Transport Network (GIPTN). The programme showcased major investment in road upgrades, commuter safety, and new digital tools to make the GO GEORGE bus service simpler and more efficient.
The first stop was in Pacaltsdorp, where the Beach Panther transfer facility was officially unveiled. The R17,6 million upgrade, funded through the Public Transport Network Grant (PTNG), has significantly improved the Beach Road area.
The new facility makes transferring between routes easier and safer for passengers. It features larger bus stops and shelters, wider median islands and paved walkways for safer pedestrian access, and dedicated cycle lanes to support non-motorised transport.
The second event took place in Thembalethu, where officials inspected progress on two major road upgrades, part of a larger R505 million grant-funded investment:
• Ngcakani Street: Phase 3 of a R68,52 million rehabilitation, now nearing completion.
• Tabata Street: Phase 4 of a R65,09 million upgrade, viewed during a drive-through and stop.
Both projects are mainly funded by the PTNG, with a 5% contribution from the George Municipality, ensuring these key bus routes are strong, safe, and durable for bus transport.
At the TRUNS transfer location in Thembalethu, GoBot, GO GEORGE’s new AI-powered chat bot, was launched. This marks two years of investment in easy-to-use, 24/7 digital tools for commuters.
Key digital upgrades make commuting easier and more convenient. GO GEORGE now offers GoBot, a 24/7 chat bot for quick trip planning, and a revamped website with an interactive stop explorer and live timetables. Smart infrastructure, including digital screens and QR-coded “pole collars” at 40 pilot stops, links passengers directly to GoBot and the website. At the same time, communication champions equipped with tablets provide in-person support, ensuring traditional assistance remains available alongside these new digital services.
The day ended with a ride on the Industrial Route (Route 10) from the Jonga terminus. Since launching in October 2024, the route has become a vital link for workers and students, connecting Thembalethu to George Industria and schools such as York High School and Eden Technical High School. Passenger numbers on this route have grown dramatically from 1 437 at launch, to a peak of 22 628 per month.
“Today was a proud moment as we saw first-hand how our investments are transforming the daily commute for the people of George. Walking through the streets of Ngcakani, Tabata, and Beach Road, and seeing the new transfer hubs and digital tools in action, reminded me that this isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about improving the dignity and convenience of every commuter. Launching GoBot and witnessing how it complements traditional support shows that GO GEORGE is truly becoming a service with access to information around the clock and for everyone, connecting residents to jobs, schools, and other opportunities safely and efficiently,” reflected Minister Sileku.
Western Cape Mobility Minister, Isaac Sileku, flanked by Parliamentary representatives and guests, officially launched the upgraded facilities at the GO GEORGE Beach/Panther Transfer Facility in Pacaltsdorp on 24 February.
All hands on deck: Contractors are hard at work at the current Phase of the Tabata Street upgrade project in Thembalethu.