Thessaloniki Metro reduces car traffic, Flyover project accelerates

09:10 16/4/2025 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

More than 6 million trips have been recorded on the Thessaloniki Metro in its first four months of operation, according to Greek transport officials.

The increased use of public transit has contributed to an estimated reduction of 12,000 to 15,000 vehicles in the city center daily.

The update was shared during an extended session of the Thessaloniki Transport Coordination Council, led by Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Christos Dimas and Deputy Interior Minister (Macedonia-Thrace) Kostas Gioulekas.

Mr. Dimas emphasized that the metro has already improved urban mobility and commuter satisfaction. He also noted the system’s positive impact on the city's traffic and announced that five new stations will be added with the extension to Kalamaria by February 2026.

Meanwhile, work is accelerating on Thessaloniki’s new elevated highway, known as the flyover.

The project is expected to be completed in just over two years. A second oversized steel mold—used in the construction of the elevated road—is scheduled to arrive in the city this summer. Once assembled, it will begin operation in September, allowing construction to proceed at a faster pace.

Mr. Dimas said the government has reached agreements with contractors to bring in this second mold to support the accelerated schedule.

“The goal is for the flyover to significantly relieve traffic congestion in the city’s peripheral road network,” he said.

Traffic safety upgrades are also underway. In the coming months, new traffic monitoring cameras will be installed throughout Thessaloniki to record violations and improve road safety.

Deputy Infrastructure Minister Nikos Tachiaos described the metro expansion as a "difficult exercise" due to the complexity of multiple contracts but affirmed that the February 2026 completion target remains in place.

Mr. Gioulekas praised the Thessaloniki Coordination Council’s progress, stating it has worked effectively because “all stakeholders are at the same table, discussing problems and proposing solutions.”

Other officials present at the meeting included Central Macedonia Regional Governor Athina Aidona, several local mayors, business and transport leaders, and representatives from agencies including OASTH, OSETH, Egnatia Odos, and Thessaloniki Police and Fire Services.

The meeting also highlighted recent road changes that have eased traffic bottlenecks, including the removal of the bike lane on Nikis Avenue and the installation of flexible posts on Mitropoleos Street.

Mr. Dimas concluded by stressing the government’s commitment to maintaining close oversight of these major infrastructure projects, stating that near-daily project management meetings with Mr. Tachiaos are planned to ensure timely completion.

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