2026 will be the year of major roadworks in Flanders. Significant works are planned at 45 locations across Flanders, representing an investment of 1 billion euros – not including the Oosterweel project. The plans were announced last Tuesday by Annick De Ridder (N-V), Flemish Minister of Mobility and Public Works.

Every year, work is planned to keep the motorway infrastructure safe. This year is no different. On the one hand, new mobility projects are planned, but according to the minister, the existing infrastructure is also being improved. This year’s focus is on road surface and bridge renewal. Bridges and viaducts will be renovated at 18 locations.

‘Accessibility of the region’

Traffic complexes are being redeveloped, space is being made for rail transport along highways, and at two locations, regional roads are being converted into highways. “This is important for the safety and comfort of drivers, but also to improve the accessibility of our region,” De Ridder explains.

Most renovation works are located in Flemish Brabant (18), followed by Antwerp (14) and East Flanders (7). West Flanders has 5 projects, and Limburg has 1. The largest part of the budget will therefore go to Flemish Brabant (750 million euros). The work on the Vilvoorde viaduct alone will cost half a billion euros.

The safety of road workers and road users remains a priority. Construction sites will be designed as safely as possible, speeds will be reduced, and road users will be notified of the work well in advance.

Significant disruption is expected at some locations. For example, on the E313 between Antwerp-East and Wommelgem, with the renovation of the bridges over the Sterckshoflei and the Cornelissenlaan; on the E19 in Mechelen, where the road surface is being replaced; or on the E17 near Sint-Niklaas, where similar works are planned.

The aim is to minimize disruption as much as possible by working during quieter traffic times, keeping as many lanes open as possible, and working around the clock where possible.

‘Check voor Vertrek’

The Roads and Traffic Agency (Agentschap Wegen en Verkeer, AWV) is launching a new national campaign on radio, social media, and billboards to inform drivers about roadworks on their route.

All information about roadworks throughout Flanders can be found at www.wegenenverkeer.be. The Traffic Center provides 24/7 information about the current traffic situation on Flemish highways at www.verkeerscentrum.be.

The ‘Check before Departure’ (Check voor Vertrek) campaign is intended to encourage drivers to inform themselves in advance to avoid any surprises.