As part of a 35-year concession agreement with the Hellenic Republic, GEK Terna has established a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to redesign, rebuild, finance, operate, and maintain a 187-kilometer stretch of the Northern Road Axis of Crete from Kissamos east through Chania and Heraklion, Crete’s largest cities, to Hersonissos. GEK Terna has appointed Hill International as the leader of the independent engineering team for the project. In this role, the Hill team is supporting the Hellenic Republic, GEK Terna, and other stakeholders by overseeing design and construction activities and providing other technical oversight services to help ensure that the project meets all specifications and the requirements of the concession agreement.

One of the largest infrastructure initiatives in Europe today, the €2 billion megaproject involves the complete redesign and reconstruction of the island’s busiest road to bring it in line with European Union standards, improve safety, and reduce congestion. When complete, the highway will feature 43 interchanges, 23 tunnels, 89 bridges, 89 underpasses, 12 overpasses, operations and maintenance facilities, passenger service stations, and more. Early preliminary works, comprising the installation of passing lanes, bollards separating traffic moving in opposite directions, new anti-skid surfaces, and new road markings, have already contributed to a reduction in accidents along the corridor.

President, Europe, Manolis Sigalas says: “In addition to our ongoing involvement in Crete’s New International Airport of Heraklion at Kastelli, we are delighted to expand our presence on the island with another infrastructure megaproject. The Northern Road Axis of Crete is a critical investment that will significantly improve connectivity across the island, strengthen the local economy, and enhance road safety for residents and visitors alike. Our growing portfolio in Greece, which also includes our work at the country’s largest airport, Athens International Airport, reflects Hill’s long-term commitment to supporting transformative infrastructure that enables sustainable growth. We remain dedicated to contributing to Crete’s continued development as these backbone projects unlock further investments and opportunities across the island.”

“With an economy based on agriculture and tourism, Crete depends on a safe and reliable transportation network,” adds Vice President & Managing Director Southeast Europe Panos Efstathiou. “We’re proud to support a megaproject that will help enhance connectivity across the island and support its growth for years to come.”