Talks about the construction of a bypass in Clervaux have been going on for what seems like an eternity. The construction project is important for the north of the country and especially the Clervaux area as it would alleviate traffic and improve Clervaux residents' quality of life. is important is out of the question. However, the transformation comes with a hefty price tag: Instead of the €33 million initially set aside for the project, the final bill is expected to be closer to €73 million.
The Minister for Mobility François Bausch explained this cost explosion with the fact that fewer lanes were planned in the beginning. In addition to the expansion of the initial plans, the ground beneath the construction site was found not to be as stable as initially thought. On top of that, the construction zone lies in a protected Natura-2000 zone, which also adds to the costs.
The construction of the bypass was launched 12 years ago. Once it's finished, the quality of life for Clervaux residents will be improved and heavy transport will be taken out of the town centre.
In order to avoid similar high costs in the future, minister François Bausch wants the methods of funding for large-scale projects to be revised by Ponts et Chaussées roads and bridges department.
Clervaux bypass is expected to open in summer 2022.
How far along is the construction?
The "Irbich" viaduct is 265 meters long, stands on 6 pillars and is as good as finished. In February, the lanes across the viaduct were being surfaced.
Luxembourg - and its northern region in particular- is a popular vacation destination, attracting many visitors. Town of Clervaux needs to be relieved of the bus and lorry-traffic, to give the residents a certain quality of life back. At the same time, the bypass is expected to make the town more attractive to tourists.
Once completed, the bypass will be 4 kilometres long and connect Marnach with Echternach. About 10.000 vehicles per day are expected benefit from this new road.
