Cycle tunnel Welriekendedreef

Start of the works

01/10/2021

End of the works

Autumn 2023

Region

Overijse

Project status

In progress

We are fully committed to more and better bicycle infrastructure with the 'Werken aan de Ring' (Work on the Ring) programme. We are building safe bicycle paths and comfortable bicycle bridges and tunnels. They will enable you to cycle smoothly and quickly along, over and under the Ring Road. This is how we can provide road users with a good alternative to cars and gradually reduce the number of vehicles on the Ring Road. The conversion of the old pedestrian tunnel, at the end of the Welriekendedreef between Hoeilaart and Overijse, into a comfortable cycle tunnel fully reflects this ambition.

The tunnel is now fully accessible for cyclists and pedestrians. The contractor is still on site for the final finishing touches.

Strategically chosen place, with report for the Sonian Forest

The choice to convert exactly this pedestrian tunnel was not taken haphazardly. The investments do not, in fact, only benefit the residents of Overijse and Hoeilaart; the many cyclists in and around the Sonian Forest also enjoy it.

Moreover, the construction of the tunnel took into account the fauna present. For instance, on the side of the tunnel that faces the forest, no bright lights have been placed that would disturb the animals' habitat. For this reason, the road markings in the tunnel will soon be applied with special self-illuminating paint.

Graffiti art adorns the tunnel

Anyone cycling through the tunnel will immediately notice the two surprising artistic interventions. At the exit towards the Sonian Forest, an imposing print of a stag beetle is embedded in the concrete wall. A reference to this protected inhabitant of the forest.

At the centre of the tunnel, Italian artist Tellas and Puerto Rican 2Bleene and Leuven-based artist collective Treepack created a beautiful abstract mural featuring white and red wood anemones.

Further completion in the coming months

The contractor will be putting the final touches to the tunnel until the autumn. He will be installing handrails, place finishing stones on the tunnel walls and the lighting will be fitted. Also the fluorescent signing will be painted. The thoroughfare is now fully safe for use for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Slip road to the Ring permanently closed

At the end of 2022, the Municipality of Overijse communicated its decision not to open the slip road to the Ring from Welriekendedreef onto Sint-Jansbergdreef after completion of the works. The municipality is taking this measure to prevent cut-through traffic. You can consult the Overijse municipality's decision via the following link: https://www.overijse.be/aanleg-fietshelling-welriekendedreef.

The slip road to the Ring Road can still be accessed via Brusselsesteenweg in Hoeilaart and Terblokstraat.

Welriekendedreef