“Contracts with contractors for the works from the intersection of Nemenčinė and Maišiagala to Pociūnai have already been signed, and real full-scale works on the highway will begin next spring, as soon as the weather permits. For the last three sections, the total length of which is slightly more than 25 km, tenders for the contract work will be announced in the first half of November, and the start of the reconstruction work is also planned from the spring.
Thus, all the conditions for the implementation of the project dubbed the “construction of the century” are ensured”, says Minister of Communications Marius Skuodis.
The total length of the Vilnius-Utena road, which has not yet been repaired, is 42.8 km. The renovation project of this part consists of 5 separate sections, contracts for two, almost 18 km long sections from the intersection of Nemenčinė and Maišiagala to the settlement of Pociūnai, were signed this week.
Via Lietuva, after the end of the public procurement procedures, concluded contracts for the renewal of these sections with AB HISK (section from 21.5 km to 28.4 km, contract value – EUR 16.2 million) and UAB “Fegda” (section from 28 .4 km to 39.2 km, the value of the contract is EUR 26.8 million).
It is planned that works on 42.8 km sections should take place without stopping traffic, but with the introduction of smaller traffic restrictions (traffic in individual sections will be regulated by traffic lights).
“We have repeatedly emphasized the importance of the Vilnius-Utena road as a strategic connection between the capital, Utena, and other cities in the northeastern region of the country. Currently, the physical overhaul of the road from Molėtai to Utena is being carried out with high quality and even faster than planned. Understanding the strategic significance of this project and knowing the public’s expectations, we paid individual attention to the implementation of the project from the moment it was initiated,” says Via Lietuva CEO Marius Švaikauskas.
Due to higher traffic intensity, the road from Vilnius to Molėtai will be reconstructed into 2+1 traffic lanes. A 2.5 m wide separating lane will be installed in the reconstructed section of almost 18 km. Here, it is planned to install 2 underground passages for temporary animals, basically to remodel 2 intersections: a roundabout will be installed at the intersection with the Nemenčinė–Eitminiškės–Paberžė road, and a one-level four-way intersection is planned to be installed at the intersection with the Joniškis–Dubingiai–Dirmeitai–Paberžė district road.
During the reconstruction works, the bus stop platforms will be renovated and waiting pavilions will be installed on the road. The movement of cars will be organized by changing the number of lanes every few kilometers. This will increase the flow of transit traffic and drivers will be able to safely pass slower vehicles without having to cross into the oncoming traffic lane.
According to the contracts signed with the contractors, the first almost 18 km of the remaining 42.8 km to be reconstructed will be completed within 9 and 12 months, excluding the winter break.
The first stage of Utena highway reconstruction – works in the city of Utena – was completed at the beginning of October, and the works on the 30 km section from Molėtai to Utena will be completed this year.
The Vilnius–Utena road was built in 1979–1985. and is the only road made of concrete slabs in Lithuania. This main road is one of the main transport arteries of Lithuania, leading from the country’s capital to the surrounding municipalities.
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#worst #road #Lithuania #Utena #reconstructed #Business
**Interview with Marius Skuodis, Minister of Communications**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Skuodis. We’ve just learned about the completion of the Vilnius–Utena road reconstruction. Can you elaborate on the significance of this project for the region?
**Marius Skuodis:** Thank you for having me. The Vilnius-Utena road serves as a crucial artery connecting the capital to Utena and other northeastern cities. It facilitates not only regional mobility but also supports economic activities. The ongoing upgrades will greatly enhance safety and traffic flow, which is essential for the area’s development.
**Interviewer:** What are the next steps in this reconstruction project?
**Marius Skuodis:** Contracts for continuation with contractors have already been signed, specifically for works from the intersection of Nemenčinė and Maišiagala to Pociūnai. Full-scale construction is set to begin next spring, weather permitting. For the remaining segments, tenders will be announced in November, and we plan to start those works in the spring as well.
**Interviewer:** How long is the entire project expected to take, and will there be any disruptions to traffic during the construction?
**Marius Skuodis:** The full length still requiring renovation is 42.8 kilometers. While we anticipate the work will be significant, we have designed the project to minimize disruptions. Traffic will be managed in individual segments, primarily through traffic lights, to ensure flow remains as smooth as possible.
**Interviewer:** You’ve referred to this as the “construction of the century.” What makes this project stand out?
**Marius Skuodis:** This project not only revamps an essential transport route but does so with modern standards in mind, including the incorporation of safety features such as 2+1 traffic lanes and dedicated underground passages for wildlife. We’re committing to a high-quality renovation that meets both current and future traffic needs, hence the “construction of the century” label.
**Interviewer:** As this project progresses, how are you keeping the public informed and engaged?
**Marius Skuodis:** Transparency is key. We are committed to providing timely updates through various channels about construction milestones and any traffic regulations that may affect the public. Engaging with the community means ensuring their expectations are met and their concerns addressed throughout the project’s lifecycle.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Minister Skuodis. We look forward to seeing the progress on the Vilnius-Utena road.
**Marius Skuodis:** Thank you for having me. We’re excited about the developments and are dedicated to delivering a road that will significantly improve travel and commerce in our region.
