In early January, the implementation of two significant projects in the heart of Larnaca commenced, with an estimated cost of approximately eight million euros. These projects are projected to reach completion within the next two years.

The Municipality of Larnaca, in an official statement, expressed its commitment to pursuing two additional initiatives, thus establishing city development as a fundamental pillar for enhancing the quality of life in Larnaca.

A public presentation took place on June 14, at Zoukouri Square. During this event, comprehensive project studies were unveiled, encompassing the revitalization of Acropoleos and Alkis Square, as well as the adjacent roads. Furthermore, the plans included the renovation of roads and the implementation of accessibility measures for individuals with disabilities within Larnaca's Urban Center, specifically in Phase B.

The Mayor of Larnaca, Andreas Vyras, expressed that the implementation of these two projects add another significant milestone to the extensive efforts of the Municipal Council in achieving the city's goals and vision. This vision encompasses creating a safe and convenient living environment for both Cypriot citizens and foreign visitors, within a modern and contemporary setting that also prioritizes environmental preservation.

Furthermore, he emphasized that these two projects will complement the existing developments in the city center and attract individuals of all ages, fostering a higher quality of life.

Regarding the revitalization of Acropoleos and Alkis Squares, along with the surrounding roads, the Mayor elaborated on the improvement and reconstruction initiatives. This includes removing the existing asphalt layers and replacing them with cobblestones, widening the sidewalks, upgrading the rainwater system, enhancing and relocating utility infrastructure and Public Utility Services networks, as well as enhancing the overall aesthetics and functionality of the area. These enhancements encompass augmenting green spaces, installing water features, and incorporating modern urban amenities.

The Mayor also highlighted that this project serves as a continuation of Phase B in the road redevelopment and accessibility for individuals with disabilities endeavor. The primary objective is to achieve a comprehensive enhancement of the area, encompassing its visual appeal, functionality, and overall quality. Additionally, it aims to ensure smooth and secure mobility for both pedestrians and vehicles, with a specific focus on providing accessible facilities for individuals with disabilities. The project encompasses several streets, namely Loukis Akritas, Orpheos Gladstonos, Konstantinos Kalogera, and Grigori Afxentiou Avenue.

The study was conducted by the office of A. F. Modinos and SA Vrahimis Architects and Engineers. The project is expected to commence in January 2024 and will have a duration of 18 months. The estimated cost is 3.7 million euros, and it falls within the framework of the "THALEIA 2021-2027" Cohesion Policy Program, co-financed by the European Union.

Regarding the redevelopment of roads and accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the urban center of Larnaca - Phase B, the Mayor stated that it involves the improvement and reconstruction of existing roads by removing asphalt layers and replacing them with cobblestones. It also includes widening sidewalks, removing parking areas (except for supply vehicles), upgrading the stormwater system, enhancing utility infrastructure and networks, undergrounding services, installing urban equipment and electronic user information points, upgrading lighting, and road signage, as well as traffic reconfiguration.

The Mayor explained that this particular road network serves as a vital transportation link for existing redevelopment projects undertaken by the Municipality of Larnaca in recent years through urban planning and co-financed initiatives. The project aims to enhance the existing road network, connecting co-financed projects from the 2007-2013 and 2014-2020 periods, such as the Regeneration of Three Squares, Road Redevelopment and Accessibility for PWDs - Phase A, the new Municipal Market, the Revitalization of Zoukouri Square, and the Multipurpose Center.

According to Mr. Vyras, the entire design transforms the urban center from an infrastructure mainly supporting motor vehicles to one that promotes alternative modes of transportation, including pedestrians, cyclists, and PWDs, making it fully accessible to everyone. The reconstruction, improvement, and upgrade of the road and the area will allow for aesthetic and functional enhancements to the core area of the Municipality, becoming a reference point. Additionally, it will increase the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and PWDs.

Furthermore, the project aims to strengthen green spaces, enhance the quality of the area, highlight and promote the architectural, urban, historical, social, and environmental value of the region. Alongside road reconstruction, utility services will be undergrounded, suitable LED road lighting will be installed, and appropriate signage will be implemented.

Essentially, the project aims to create conditions for sustainable mobility, improve accessibility for PWDs, enhance greenery, positively influence microclimate through planting and artificial shading of the roadway at +6.0m height, and preserve the traditional character of the area. Moreover, the project will reduce noise pollution and emissions of pollutants and dust.

The Mayor added that with the redevelopment and completion of this project, the Municipality aims to create a distinctive core in the city center, which, unfortunately, does not exist to date, despite the fact that this particular area is the most significant tourist attraction in Larnaca.

The study was conducted by Loucaides & Philippou Architects Engineers. The project will commence in January 2024 and will span over 24 months. The estimated cost is calculated at 4.5 million euros, and it falls within the framework of the "THALEIA 2021-2027" Cohesion Policy Program, co-financed by the European Union, he stated.

The Mayor extended his heartfelt appreciation to "all those involved in the execution of both projects, with a special acknowledgment to the General Directorate of European Program Coordination and Development, the European Funds Unit, and the Government of Cyprus." He emphasized that, without their indispensable contributions, the realization of these particular projects, as well as others, would have been unattainable.