Dh700m work on city tunnels to start soon

Infrastructure plan will increase traffic capacity on Baynounah Street near Emirates Palace.

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ABU DHABI // Work will start soon on a Dh700 million project intended to improve the road and traffic infrastructure on Baynounah Street and part of the Ras Al Akhdar area, according to a statement from the Department of Transport.

The project, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year, consists of two tunnels: one 540 metres and two lanes, providing direct access to Etihad Towers; and the other 700 metres long and two lanes, between Baynounah Street and 32nd Street.

In addition, two roundabouts opposite Emirates Palace hotel will be converted into traffic-light intersections.

The project also includes expanding part of Baynounah Street to four lanes, to include a dedicated bus lane and a service lane to cater for area hotels.

Two new intersections will be installed on Baynounah Street, as well as road improvements on service lane number 27, which connects Baynounah Street to 32nd Street. The extensive road works are also designed to improve traffic capacity on part of Corniche Road and 32nd Street.

Mawaqif parking spaces on 32nd Street opposite the InterContinental Hotel will also be added.

The plans also include landscaping and fountains.

"The project is part of a strategic initiative aimed at improving the road infrastructure to accommodate the expected traffic increase in the area due to growth in the demand on construction and development in the emirate," the statement read.