Wedoany.com Report on Feb 24th, The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) has awarded the preliminary and detailed design contract for the Fljótagöng road tunnel project in northern Iceland to Cowi. The project involves the construction of approximately 24 km of new road and a 5.3 km tunnel, replacing the aging mountain route between the town of Siglufjörður and the Fljót area. The design work is scheduled for completion in November 2026.
Cowi's scope of work covers multi-disciplinary engineering and technical consultancy services, including geotechnics, road and bridge design, water and drainage systems, structural and electrical engineering, as well as tunnel control and safety systems, which are key components of the road tunnel project. The company will also coordinate environmental planning and climate adaptation measures to address the complex conditions along the proposed route. The existing mountain road is becoming increasingly vulnerable to subsidence and severe winter weather, prompting local calls for a more reliable year-round connection. This road tunnel project aims to provide uninterrupted access for residents, tourists, and goods, while reducing the safety risks associated with the current route.
Designers face significant natural environmental challenges. The tunnel route traverses water protection zones and areas with potential landslide and avalanche risks, requiring detailed geological analysis and measures to limit environmental impact. Planners also intend to incorporate multi-modal transport features, providing facilities for pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders, along with rest areas and other infrastructure to meet regional transport and local community needs. The Fljótagöng road tunnel project has been listed as a priority investment in Iceland's National Transport Plan until 2040.
Gunnar Gunnarsson, Senior Vice President at Cowi Iceland, stated: "This project aligns with broader infrastructure goals for northern Iceland. Improving reliability and safer travel conditions are expected to support regional mobility while helping sustain small communities experiencing geographical and climatic isolation." Arndís Ósk Arnalds, Managing Director of the Construction Department at Vegagerðin, said: "Cowi possesses extensive expertise and long-term experience in tunnel design, which is crucial for delivering a safer and more reliable road tunnel. We look forward to close collaboration throughout the design process." The procurement of construction contractors and environmental permits will be the next steps before the construction of this road tunnel project can begin.
