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The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has awarded a contract to China Roads and Bridge Corporation for the design and construction of a pedestrian underpass in Nairobi City.
The underpass will be situated at the junction of Haile Selassie Avenue and Uhuru Highway/Expressway, the Green Park pedestrian underpass aims to ease pedestrian traffic and enhance safety in the CBD.
The project, costing two billion Kenya Shillings, will include four underpasses around the roundabout, featuring main and connecting passages, stairs, drainage, lighting, fire protection, and other amenities.
The ground-level facilities will include two bathrooms.
Public participation began with a forum on February 7, 2024, chaired by Starehe Area Chief Mr. Fred Mbaka and attended by various stakeholders, including Engineer Christine Ogut from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
“Our roads are not pedestrian friendly, the government through KENHA has the intention to transform our roads to better standards. We will ensure security of the area by erecting street lights and have our officers patrol the area frequently,” Mbaka said.
Participants expressed enthusiasm for the project’s potential to improve pedestrian safety and alleviate congestion.
Concerns about underpass safety and maintenance were raised, but the project includes plans to mitigate traffic disruption and ensure ongoing safety measures such as lighting.
“Most of us have lost our mobile phones and other belongings at roundabouts, footbridges, such pedestrian underpasses. I hope this particular one will be unique,” Fred Maingi a City resident cum journalist said during the public participation.
The issue of street families dominating such areas and dumping wastes was castigated and respective government agencies asked to take strict measures.
Additionally, shops and washrooms will activate the area, and further information will be disclosed to the public as the project progresses.
Saladin Consulting Limited Director Silas Otieno told the participants that young people will be involved at the construction site in bid to boost employment among youths.