Lighting works on the F46 fast cycle route towards Kluisbergen are progressing through Oudenaarde. The bridge over the N60 in Leupegem is almost completed and will officially open on October 2. The first section in Kluisbergen has already had lighting for several years, and the lighting is now being extended on the Oudenaarde side, with priority for cyclists at the main intersections. The costs are shared by the Roads and Traffic Agency (AWV), the Province of East Flanders and the City of Oudenaarde.

(Staff: Belgium / Mobility & Infrastructure)

Work on the fast cycle route between Kluisbergen and Oudenaarde is entering a new phase. After the province installed lighting on the Kluisbergen section several years ago, intensive work is now underway to bring lighting to the section crossing Oudenaarde. In the Melden area, cables can currently be seen emerging from the ground, indicating that installation of the lighting poles is in full progress.

Priority for cyclists at intersections

An important principle already applied in Kluisbergen will also be extended to Oudenaarde: cyclists will have priority at the main intersections. “At Onderbos and Schapendrie – Koekstraat, cyclists will have priority,” said Kurt Moens (N-VA), member responsible for mobility. “The intersection at Lammekensstraat – Maartstraat is a crossing point exclusively for cyclists. The connection to Watermolenstraat will be arranged temporarily until the fast cycle route is fully completed.”

Bridge over the N60 opens on October 2

The cycle bridge over the N60 in Leupegem is almost ready. Finishing work is underway and the official opening is scheduled for October 2. The N60 road will also receive a new asphalt surface as part of the works.

Who is paying?

The project costs are shared among three partners:

• Roads and Traffic Agency (AWV) is building and financing the cycle bridge over the N60 as part of the F46 route, including bridge lighting, with a total investment of €7,835,000.
• Province of East Flanders is covering the cost of the F46/45 route between Watermolenstraat and Onderbos, amounting to €354,968.
• City of Oudenaarde is paying €198,079 for the side branches of the fast cycle route at Lammekensstraat and for installing lighting along this route.

Conclusion

The extension of the lighting and the opening of the new bridge over the N60 are important steps for the safety and comfort of cyclists travelling between Kluisbergen and Oudenaarde. Priority for cyclists at intersections and substantial public investment support alternative mobility in the Vlaamse Ardennen region. Once the works are completed, the fast cycle route will be not only an environmentally friendly alternative, but also a safer and more attractive option for commuters and cycling enthusiasts.