The transformation of Solomos Square in Nicosia will be complete by the summer of 2009, the Communications and Works Ministry announced yesterday.
Following a meeting with the Guidance Committee in charge of public transportation issues, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Makis Constantinides, announced a number of decisions that had been made.
“The green light has been given for the transformation of Solomos Square in Nicosia with the creation of new bus lanes and bus shelters in the area,” he said, adding that the entire project was set to cost around €3.3 million. “If all goes to plan, the transformation is expected to be ready by the summer of 2009.”
The Guidance Committee was also informed on the development of Archangelos Avenue in Strovolos, which will include bus lanes and new bus stops.
“It is the first avenue to be created in a correct manner and with correct planning,” Constantinides pointed out.
He added that the Road Transportation Department had informed the Committee over details of a current contract held with public transport services.
“This issue was subject to public consultation and the Road Transport Department has concluded its thoughts and on May 9 it has invited all implicated parties to exchange views before the next move is made to promote the issue,” Constantinides explained. “And when we say promote the issue, we mean the issue will be forwarded to the Commissioner for State Funding, as well as to Brussels, so that we can receive the green light there too, so there are no competition problems.”
Regarding public transportation in Nicosia, Constantinides said tenders had been opened to advisors regarding the measures that need to be taken and priorities that need to be given to improve public transport. “The tenders are expected to be allocated in the next month,” he added.
Asked what was being done to improve the massive traffic problems in Athalassa Avenue, especially during the morning hours, Constantinides said the issue had already been researched professionally and measures were underway.
Environment Commissioner Charalambos Theopemptou said he was impressed with the plans.
“We have here an action plan that includes transportation within the towns, but also between the towns and between towns and airports,” he said after the meeting. “We have a complete plan for urban transportation and it is very interesting.”
The Guidance Committee will meet again next month.
