In the presence of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the concession contract for the largest infrastructure project in Crete, the Chania – Heraklion section of the Northern Road Axis of Crete (157 km), was signed today at the Heraklion Cultural Conference Center.
Minister of Infrastructure Christos Dimas described the day as “historic”, announcing that the project is also being extended to Kissamos, while studies for the eastern completion up to Sitia are starting immediately by order of the Prime Minister. At the same time, he announced enhanced road safety measures, pointing out that “VOAK is not just a road – it is a matter of life and death”.
Deputy Minister Nikos Tachiaos noted that “a new demanding phase is beginning”, emphasizing the importance of cooperation with local communities, while the Regional Governor of Crete Stavros Arnaoutakis spoke of a project that “changes the map of Crete”.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis underlined that this is a “lifetime project that unites the island”, noting that “Crete is finally acquiring a modern, safe motorway from end to end”.
Technical characteristics of the project:
- Length: 157 kilometers (Chania – Heraklion)
- Double closed expressway, with 2 lanes + LEA in each direction
- 22 grade-separated junctions
- 16 tunnels with a total length of 34 km.
- 43 bridges and overpasses
- Full ITS (Intelligent Transport Systems) system, service stations, and modern lighting
- Budget: over 1.7 billion euros
- Funding: Recovery Fund, NSRF, private capital
The project is expected to be completed within the next six years, but with the aim of accelerating it, early construction phases are being launched at critical points.
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