Polish island tunnel connection planned

The tender process is due to commence in Poland for a major new tunnel project in the north of the country. The link will provide an improved road connection for the city of Swinoujscie, running between the islands of Uznam and Wolin. When complete in late 2021 or early 2022, this will be the longest road tunnel ever constructed in Poland. A number of consortia and companies have been preselected by the 3519 Polish General Directorate for National Roads and Motorways (GDDKiA) to tender for the project. The plans call for the construction of a 3.4km long tunnel that will feature a diameter of 12m and which will be excavated using a TBM. Firms invited to tender include a consortium comprising 3302 Budimex and 2717 Ferrovial, a consortium made up of 1324 Astaldi and Ghella, a consortium called 8002 Polaqua that includes 6423 Toto Costruzioni Generali and ICM and another consortium headed by Austrian contractor 945 Strabag. In addition, 980 OHL has also been invited to tender. Funding worth €179 million is being provided by the EU and will cover 85% of the costs associated with the project. The source for the remainder of the funding has yet to be announced.