Charleroi: Mayence Tunnel (R9) and Boulevard to be Renovated from 2027

A budget of 12 million euros (excl. VAT) for simultaneous renovation of the tunnel and surface road, aiming to improve safety and mobility.

Generic image of an urban tunnel entrance with ongoing construction on the adjacent boulevard, under an overcast northern European sky.
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Generic image of an urban tunnel entrance with ongoing construction on the adjacent boulevard, under an overcast northern European sky.

The Board of Directors of SOFICO has awarded the contract for the rehabilitation of the Mayence Tunnel (R9) and its surface boulevard, with a total budget of 12 million euros (excl. VAT). Work is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2027 and last for 2 years.

The project, managed by the SPW Mobilité et Infrastructures, aims to transform the Mayence tunnel, increasing its length from 300 to 385 meters. The structure will be repaired, waterproofing renewed, and fire-resistant and acoustic cladding installed for increased safety and comfort for residents. Other contracts will modernize the electromechanical equipment.
On the surface, the Mayence Boulevard will be completely redeveloped. This urban transformation includes the creation of green spaces and a children's playground, the construction of a bidirectional cycle path and wide sidewalks, as well as the restructuring of the R9 exit and the parking area.
The 12 million euro budget (excl. VAT) is shared: 10.6 million funded by SOFICO for the tunnel and 1.4 million by the City of Charleroi for the boulevard. Interventions will be carried out simultaneously to optimize impact, maintaining daytime traffic on the R9 and the boulevard.
A preparatory phase begins now. The main works, expected to last approximately 2 years, will be carried out in two phases to minimize disruption. At least two traffic lanes will remain accessible during the day on the R9, with full closures exclusively at night. Traffic on Mayence Boulevard will be maintained throughout the construction period.
Based on information from the official source: Ville de Charleroi — Actualités (21/10/2026)