Critical traffic bottlenecks in Attica are under the microscope of the Ministry of Infrastructure, with immediate interventions planned for key points on the road network. During a recent forum on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and Model Proposals, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure Nikos Tachos highlighted that relieving congestion at the Metamorfosis junction on the Attiki Odos is an immediate priority — one of the most congested spots in the road network. The proposed solution involves constructing two separate exits approximately 150 meters apart, aiming to分流 traffic according to direction toward the PATHE motorway.
According to the Deputy Minister, this proposal represents the only realistic way forward for a problem that worsens during rush hours, primarily due to heavy vehicle traffic. Currently, drivers heading either from Elefsina to Lamia or from the Airport to Northern Greece use the same exit, causing significant delays. Final studies are expected within the coming months, with construction set to begin by the end of the year, provided the final designs are approved. Construction is estimated to last four months, with temporary traffic adjustments in place for the direction of Elefsina. Implementation will be handled by the new concessionaire of the Attiki Odos.
Leoforos Kymis and Skaramangas: Projects with Different Dynamics
In terms of larger projects, the much-debated extension of Leoforos Kymis remains stalled, as despite the selection of a provisional contractor (TERNA – AKTOR), the process has been frozen due to a legal challenge by the Municipality of Heraklion before the Council of State. According to Mr. Tachos, the project also faces another structural constraint — lack of available funding.
Conversely, the construction of the triple junction in Skaramangas appears to be moving forward, as the Ministry has secured the necessary funding. The project, with a budget of €65 million and a timeline of 36 months, is expected to dramatically improve traffic at the Athens-Schistou junction, which currently operates partially. In addition, it will facilitate access to the Aigaleo Peripheral Road, bypassing the congested route through Aspropyrgos.
Elefsina – Oinofyta: The ‘Bypass of Attica’ Shelved
A key project for easing congestion on the Kifissos axis is the new road connection between Elefsina and Oinofyta, known as the ‘Bypass of Attica’. Proposed as a Model Proposal by GEK Terna since May 2023, the project remains in the evaluation phase, as the government has not yet activated the relevant institutional framework. The new closed road artery is planned to start from Elefsina, connecting with the Attiki Odos, and ending in Oinofyta, serving heavy traffic and freight transport currently burdening the Kifissos axis. Despite the delay, the Ministry does not rule out its implementation in a later phase.
Elliniko: Grade Separations and Metro Scenarios
The major urban redevelopment of Elliniko brings back into focus the need for strong traffic interventions. Still on the table is the proposal for the construction of the ‘Heliopolis Tunnel’, included in an earlier study by Lamda Development. Although the project has not yet been officially evaluated by the Ministry, it remains of interest to the government, despite high construction and operational costs.
Lamda has also reintroduced the proposal to grade-separate Leoforos Vouliagmenis from Alimos to Elliniko, while the tunnel for the underground section of Leoforos Poseidonos is already under construction, expected to be completed structurally by 2026 but fully operational by 2028, after resolving technical and institutional issues (such as connecting to the new Poseidonos Avenue, relocating tram lines, and defining an operator).
At the same time, there is discussion about extending Metro Line 2 towards Glyfada, with an intermediate station in the IRC area (casino, hotel, and conference center) within Elliniko. Lamda has expressed interest in supporting the initiative, although the financial framework for conducting the required studies remains unclear.