Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, closed to vehicles for almost four years due to redevelopment work, is expected to reopen by March, Athens Mayor Harris Doukas has announced.
According to ekathimerini.com, during a city council meeting, delays were attributed to archaeological discoveries.
Polychronios Akritidis, CEO of the company managing the project, explained that costs would increase and the street would not be entirely pedestrianised. Limited vehicle access will be allowed to accommodate the needs of nearby venues like the Zappeion and the tennis and volleyball clubs.
These allowances for vehicles sparked criticism from several council members.
“In the end, the street won’t be fully pedestrianised, as vehicles will be allowed for Aigli and the Tennis Club from both sides,” Mayor Doukas stated, emphasising that despite the rising costs and archaeological hurdles, the project’s completion is crucial for alleviating city center traffic.
“We’re told the cost will be higher, but we remain committed to reopening Vasilissis Olgas by March,” the mayor reiterated.
Source: ekathimerini.com
