Brussels, July 22, 2024 – The Reyers-Centre Tunnel, a crucial traffic route in Brussels, is now closed to all vehicles as of Monday, July 22, and will remain shut until August 31.
This closure is part of an extensive redevelopment project at Schuman Square, aimed at transforming the area’s traffic-heavy roundabout into a more pedestrian-friendly urban space.
The Reyers-Centre Tunnel, situated at the end of the E40 motorway, is a key conduit for motorists entering the Capital Region from the east.
The tunnel links the A3 motorway to Avenue de Cortenbergh, directing traffic towards Brussels’ city center.
On a daily basis, more than 15,000 cars traverse this tunnel complex. The extended closure is expected to significantly disrupt traffic flows, leading to potential congestion throughout the city.
According to Brussels Mobility, the tunnel closure is a necessary measure to facilitate the ongoing redevelopment works at Schuman Square.
“The Reyers-Centre Tunnel is closed to traffic as an accompanying measure for the works at Schuman Square. Find more information on these works and on the other summer closures,” the agency stated.
The redevelopment of Schuman Square, managed by Beliris, is part of a broader initiative to overhaul the Schuman roundabout, located at the eastern end of the N3.
This project, which began late last year, seeks to convert the bustling, car-centric area into a more versatile and vibrant town square.
The ambitious transformation aims to improve pedestrian access and overall urban aesthetics, aligning with Brussels’ broader goals of sustainable urban development.
The timing of the closure coincides with a period of lower traffic volumes, as summer months typically see a 20% reduction in vehicle use.
Despite this, the impact of the closure is expected to be significant due to the tunnel’s role as a major traffic artery. Motorists should anticipate increased congestion on alternative routes and allow for extra travel time.
This closure adds to a series of summer infrastructure disruptions in Brussels. On July 1, part of the Tervuren Tunnel was closed for maintenance work.
Following that, the entire Delta Tunnel, which connects the A4/E411 motorway to Avenue de Beaulieu in Auderghem, was closed on July 15 and will remain so until the end of August. Additionally, the Woluwe Tunnel was closed in both directions from July 15 to July 19.
The simultaneous closure of these key tunnels underscores the scale of the roadworks currently underway in Brussels.
City officials have highlighted the importance of these projects in maintaining and improving the city’s infrastructure, despite the temporary inconveniences they may cause.
For those navigating Brussels during this period, it is advisable to stay informed about traffic updates and consider alternative routes to mitigate delays.
Brussels Mobility has advised motorists to plan ahead and consult real-time traffic information to better manage the impact of these significant roadworks.
