Cyprus’ bus stops are about to get a serious upgrade, with a €60m project in the works aimed at finally putting an end to the misery faced by commuters when waiting for buses in bad weather.  The plan is to build 1,000 new bus stops, around 5m long, and upgrade existing ones. The really worn down ones will be sent for recycling.  The project is under the THALIA programme 2021-2027 and is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund by 65%, while the remaining 35% will be paid with national funds.  The project is expected to move forward swiftly, with bids set to be awarded by the end of this month, paving the way for preparatory work to commence in 2024. However, customary procedures for large-scale projects may introduce a slight delay in the bid award process due to potential appeals before the Tenders Review Authority.  According to local news reports, there were 11 initial expressions of interest, of which eight were selected to move onto the next round of the bidding process. Of those, four have submitted an offer and are awaiting the outcome. Three of the companies/groups are Cypriot and one is Greek.  Among other things, the project will include: 1) 350 smart pillars, 2) 1,350 new small bus stops, 3) 650 large bus stops, 4) 100 new large bus stops suitable for the mountain areas, 5) Renovation of 600 existing large bus stops, 6) 2,000 basic bus stops, 7) Photovoltaic systems, 8) 500 electronic notice boards, 9) 450 bins, 10) 200 bike racks and 20 bike stations, 11) Works to upgrade the surrounding infrastructure and pavements.

Fonte notizia: Cyprus Business News