A bicycle tunnel under the Brussels Ring Road has been officially opened in Overijse. The tunnel branches off at the end of Welriekendedreef and connects to the cycle network through the Sonian Forest and, thus, also toward Brussels.

Until now, there was a pedestrian tunnel at that spot. Cyclists had to carry their bicycles by hand along the bicycle ramp and pedestrian steps. This was not very practical, and it led to dissatisfaction.

Thanks to the construction of a soft bike ramp and bike tunnel, which cost 2,6 million euros, this is now no longer necessary, says executor De Werkvennootschap.

Increasing cycling safety

“The conversion of this old pedestrian tunnel into a comfortable bicycle tunnel is part of the Work on the Ring Road program,” says Flemish Minister of Mobility and Public Works Lydia Peeters (Open Vld).

“Eliminating the barrier that the Brussels Ring forms between residential and natural areas is central, as is increasing cycling safety. This bicycle tunnel unites both ambitions.”

With Work on the Ring Road or the ‘Werken aan de Ring’ infrastructure plan, the aim is to improve mobility and liveability in and around Brussels by, among other things, investing in 115 km of additional bicycle highways, smooth public transport, 10 Hoppin points, and new road infrastructure.

Not quite finished yet

The work took longer than expected, partly due to unforeseen difficulties in the subsoil. Although the tunnel is not yet finished, it can now be used safely by pedestrians and cyclists.

After the construction break, the contractor will finish the tunnel further. For instance, he will install railings, place cover stones on top of the tunnel walls, and the lighting will be installed.

The fluorescent markings will still be painted. The tunnel is also part of a future ring bike path that should open the entire Brussels Ring Road.