Sint-Niklaas (Brussels Morning newspaper) – The Flemish government approved €125M for 4 important road projects in East Flanders, including the Eastern Tangent in Sint-Niklaas. Alderman Maxime Callaert calls it vital for traffic relief.
As VRT News reported, the Flemish government has finalised a new deal for infrastructure investments, targeting long-standing transportation problems in East Flanders. 4 major projects will get funding: Gentspoort in Ghent, improvements to the N60 around Ronse, upgrades to the R4 ring road in Ghent, Evergem, and Lochristi, and the development of the Eastern Tangent in Sint-Niklaas.
Officials stated that the objective of these projects is to ultimately improve traffic flow throughout the area, create safer roads and access for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. The R4 upgrades will replace dangerous level crossings and expand the cycling network, while the N60 upgrades are to alleviate congestion and improve the safety of commuting to and from Ronse.
What is the €125M Eastern Tangent project in Sint-Niklaas?
The Eastern Tangent in Sint-Niklaas is set to be a major change for the Waasland region. This new road will run next to the Sint-Niklaas-Mechelen railway, designed to move traffic away from the busy city centre. It includes 2 underpasses, 4 bridges, 5 bicycle tunnels, and 2 bicycle bridges.
According to Alderman Mobility Maxime Callaert (N-VA), it is essential as it leads to reduced traffic across northern Waasland. He added that it would ultimately reduce density in the streets of the city, generate income for the economy through transport betterment and make Sint-Niklaas a better place to live and more accessible.
The project has now been approved with a budget of €125 million. City officials say this support is important. They mentioned that the road project will enhance traffic, the economy and enhance quality of life by reducing traffic jams. The Flemish government endorses these advantages, so they are in favour of the project.
They stated that this project was in the works for many years, with local leaders and others thinking about and planning the project for years. They did studies, talked to people, and worked with higher government levels. Now that they have the money, they’re ready to build.
The city aimed to apply for a permit for construction by the end of 2026. If nothing obstructive or highly demanding comes up, the city could start construction in 2028. The city noted that this was the best-case plan, hoping to comfort those who had waited so long for the project to start.
