Design underway for Hong Kong tunnel project

Work is moving ahead on the plans for a new tunnel link in Hong Kong, with the detailed design work now underway. The Central Kowloon Route (CKR) is now at the detailed design stage and Hong Kong’s Highways Department has launched the three-month phase two public engagement exercise, to collect public views on the design and construction plans.  The route will be 4.7km long featuring three lanes in either direction and a 3.9km long tunnel section. Construction work is set to start in 2015 and will be completed in five years. The tunnel will connect Yau Ma Tei Interchange with Kowloon Bay and the Kai Tak Development, relieving congestion and allowing for future traffic growth. The route wil incorporate new features designed in response to public concerns raised in the first public engagement exercise. The department will construct landscape decks, noise enclosures and barriers for environmental benefits. The recommended alignment will preserve the historic buildings of the Yau Ma Tei Police Station and allow Temple Street night market activities to continue during construction.