The 10-lane Shahama – Saadiyat highway, which will link Abu Dhabi island, Shahama, Yas and Saadiyat island, will be completed in 2009.

The Urban Planning Council (UPC) of Abu Dhabi said working in conjunction with the private sector including Aldar, Tourism Development & Invesment Company (TDIC), as well as the Department of Transport, it has set up a consortium of experts to construct the highway.

“It is a central element of our mandate to ensure that the Abu Dhabi Plan 2030 is delivered in a structured and coordinated way. We are delighted to be here today to demonstrate some concrete examples of our progress to date alongside our partners,” Falah Al Ahbabi, general manager of the UPC, told a press conference in Abu Dhabi.

The project is being supervised by Aldar and TDIC. Six Construct Company and Taisei Corporation will be leading construction work. Design for the highway, and an incorporated bridge, was done by Halcrow International. The entire project is expected to cost Dh1.83 billion.

“Linking the central business district (known as CBD), Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, Al Raha and the airport, this highway will relieve congestion in the Salam Street corridor. Moreover, its design makes provision for future mass transit options in the central median. Working closely with the private sector from the start has resulted in a streamlined and efficient project. We expect to see similar public-private partnerships in the future,” said Faisal Ahmed Al Suwaidi, executive director of highways, Department of Transport, Abu Dhabi.

“The Department of Transport is currently preparing a Surface Transport Master Plan, to provide a blueprint for all modes of transport in the context of UPC's Plan 2030,” he said.

The department also outlined a number of policy initiatives during the conference, including measures to promote public-private partnerships. Strategies for highway, maritime, civil aviation and public transport are being integrated by the Department, to improve efficiency, safety, convenience and reduce environmental impact.

“TDIC is firmly committed to supporting the UPC in its role of overseeing the implementation of Plan Abu Dhabi 2030,” commented Ahmed Hussein, chief operating officer, TDIC.

“We have already begun constructive dialogue with the council to ensure our plans and goals are firmly aligned to the overarching aim of delivering an outstanding, global capital with an active, diversified economy.”

“Abu Dhabi’s tourism infrastructure is being developed at a considered pace with quality and sustainability as its core ethos. TDIC’s developments are designed to assist delivery of ADTA’s aims of attracting a discerning, up-scale visitor base which demands, and appreciates, the highest quality of accommodation and attractions and has a high propensity for repeat visitation. Saadiyat Island is our flagship project and epitomizes our long-term approach to creating a destination of truly global standing.”

“A collective approach to construction procurement from across the public and private sectors, ensures that international best practices and user concerns are in-line with the bigger picture of the Abu Dhabi Plan 2030 from an early stage,” commented Mohamed Al Mubarak, director of estates and infrastructure, Aldar. “We are committed to fostering trust, transparency and openness in all of our projects, and working with this team has enabled a smooth process to date, and undoubted success in the future.” - TradeArabia News Service