A transformative €3.5 billion infrastructure project is set to reshape Crete’s northern coastline, with the new northern highway known as BOAK (Northern Road Axis of Crete) entering a crucial phase in early 2025. This ambitious highway system, spanning over 200 kilometers from Kissamos in the west to Sitia in the east, promises to revolutionize transportation and connectivity across Crete, Greece.
Current Progress
Construction is currently active on the eastern section between Hersonissos and Agios Nikolaos, with AKTOR managing the 14.5-kilometer stretch under a €186 million budget. A significant feature of this section includes the Selinari Tunnel project, an impressive engineering achievement featuring twin-bore tunnels extending 2 kilometers. The further eastern extension to Sitia, which will connect the town’s marine port and airport to the main highway network, will be developed as a public project separate from the main PPP arrangements.
The main section of BOAK, connecting Chania-Heraklion-Hersonissos, is scheduled for contract signing in early 2025, with construction expected to continue for several years beyond. While this central portion awaits commencement, the eastern sections between Hersonissos, Neapoli, and Agios Nikolaos are already under active construction. GEK TERNA will oversee the Chania-Hersonissos section, while a TERNA-AKTOR joint venture will manage the 22.5-kilometer Hersonissos-Neapoli stretch.
Heraklion Bypass and Urban Connections
The Chania-Heraklion section, a crucial part of the 157.5-kilometer central segment, includes significant developments around Heraklion. This portion of BOAK will feature modern 2+2 traffic lanes in each direction, complete with emergency lanes and a central island. The project includes 20 new grade-separated junctions and substantial upgrades to existing junctions specifically in the Heraklion bypass area. This strategic development will create an efficient traffic flow around Heraklion, connecting the city’s key points while reducing urban congestion.
Airport Integration and Regional Connectivity
A vital component of the BOAK project is its comprehensive integration with the new Kastelli Airport, which is designed to accommodate initial traffic of 10 million passengers annually, with capacity to expand to 18 million during the concession period. The airport connectivity plan features an 18-kilometer dual-lane motorway linking to Hersonissos and a 6-kilometer three-lane road connecting surrounding areas. These critical access routes are strategically planned to be completed in sync with the airport’s opening, ensuring seamless transportation flow between the airport, major urban centers, and tourist destinations along the northern coast.
Strategic Development
“We are working systematically with a plan, collectively and coherently for the implementation of projects that Crete has needed for decades,” stated Transport and Infrastructure Minister Christos Staikouras during a recent inspection visit to the island.
The project forms a crucial part of the comprehensive Crete Development Plan 2030, designed to enhance the island’s infrastructure and connectivity. The completed highway will feature:
- State-of-the-art safety systems
- Comprehensive side network development
- Multiple bridges and tunnels
- Upgraded local road networks
- Restoration of existing connecting roads
Future Impact
Once completed, the BOAK highway system will significantly reduce travel times across the island while enhancing road safety. The project aims to better connect major tourist destinations and support the island’s growing tourism sector, which saw record numbers in 2024.
“This development envisions Crete as a model region in Europe and the Mediterranean,” remarked Crete Regional Governor Stavros Arnaoutakis, highlighting the project’s role in creating “a destination of sustainable and quality development for all Cretans.“
The BOAK highway represents more than just a transportation upgrade; it symbolizes Crete’s commitment to modern infrastructure development and sustainable growth. As the project moves forward with its various sections under different contractors and an overall completion date set for 2031, it remains a cornerstone of the island’s transformation toward becoming a leading Mediterranean destination.
Published on: February 13th, 2025
The new highway …for the love of Crete ….OMG it’s a nightmare