**New Larnaca Dhekelia Road Opens After 26-Year Wait**
Larnaca, Cyprus – The new Larnaca Dhekelia road has officially opened to traffic, marking the culmination of 26 years of planning and development. Authorities celebrated the completion of the €14.8 million project, which is expected to significantly enhance accessibility and boost tourism in the region.
The latest phase of the project, known as the third phase, features a main road that stretches 3.25 kilometers and includes four traffic lanes. In addition to the main thoroughfare, the project also encompasses 4.5 kilometers of service roads designed to improve local traffic flow and connectivity.
District public works engineer Lazaros Lazarou announced that the entire 3.3-kilometer main road was opened to traffic on July 24, concluding at a roundabout leading to the nearby area of Pyla. He noted that the remaining service roads, which were added to the project following modifications to the original contract, are anticipated to be completed by the end of October.
Lazarou acknowledged the significant delays that the project faced over the years but emphasized that these were justified. He assured that there were “no contractual problems with the contractor,” indicating that the delays were not due to any issues with the construction agreement.
Construction for the project commenced on September 30, 2022, with an initial completion date set for March 2025. However, after an extension to the contract, the road was ultimately completed ahead of schedule on July 16 of this year.
Lazarou highlighted the importance of the new road for the Larnaca area, stating that it would not only enhance road safety but also encourage new investments in the region. The project includes modern cycling lanes, reflecting the increasing emphasis on cycling as a viable mode of transportation in European cities.
The opening of the Larnaca Dhekelia road was met with enthusiasm from local business leaders. Nakis Antoniou, president of the Larnaca commerce chamber (Keve), expressed his satisfaction, stating, “Finally, after many years, we have seen the Larnaca Dhekelia Road being handed over to public use.”
As the new road opens, it is expected to provide a vital link for residents and visitors alike, facilitating easier access to the coastal areas and supporting the local economy through tourism and commerce. The completion of this long-awaited infrastructure project is seen as a significant milestone for the Larnaca district, promising to reshape the area's transportation landscape for years to come.