The tender adjudication process for the Msida Creek project, considered as a significant infrastructural development for its area, has been completed. This was announced by Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett.
The Msida Creek Project, envisioned to replace the current traffic light junctions with a new flyover, has moved a step closer to realisation. This is the first major road infrastructure project in Malta that integrates a comprehensive 10-year operations and maintenance period.
The project will incorporate facilities for alternative modes of travel, including cycling and walking. The project will also provide for a major upgrade and embellishment of the surrounding areas with new recreational zones. Around 60% of the Msida Creek Project will be dedicated to open public spaces, creating a more pleasant environment in the centre of this locality.
The new open spaces and recreational zones being created will include a new 2,200 metres squared piazza in front of the Parish Church and a seawater channel, the latter also forming part of a plan to prevent flooding. This 300-metre channel will be surrounded with pathways in a landscaped area designated for recreational facilities.
Minister Bonett explained how this investment forms part of this government’s commitment to improve the quality, efficiency, safety and sustainability of road infrastructure.
“This project has been planned to achieve our objectives of creating a balance between transport needs and recreational spaces that will uplift the area. Therefore, we are providing an infrastructure that not only overcomes the challenges but caters for future needs. This is also emphasised through the obligation on the contractor to provide maintenance of the public spaces for 10 years after works have been concluded. This is the first time this obligation is being placed on an infrastructural project,” concluded Dr Bonett.
The Msida Creek project, which will cost around €35 million, is expected to start towards the end of the first half of the year and will be concluded in around 30 months. Following a thorough evaluation, the proposal from EPE JV successfully met the established criteria for the project.
Photo: MTIP