Beervelde – The Roads and Traffic Agency (AWV) has commenced significant roadworks on the E17 motorway between Beervelde and Berlare towards Antwerp, which will last for 10 days. Minister Annick De Ridder emphasizes the importance of these improvements for safety. The Beervelde exit is closed, speed limits are enforced, and diversions are in place, reports 24brussels.
As part of the second phase of summer roadworks, the right-hand lane heading towards Antwerp will undergo complete replacement down to the foundation, involving three layers of new asphalt. This project is part of a broader investment strategy announced by AWV earlier this year.
“These major summer construction projects will cause some disruption, but they are important for improving the safety and longevity of one of our busiest and most important highways,”
stated Minister of Mobility Annick De Ridder (N-VA). She also highlighted that “the high traffic volume in Europe’s logistics heartland makes substantial investment essential.”
Impact of AWV’s 10-day E17 Works on Traffic at Beervelde-Berlare
Traffic will continue to flow during the construction period, although diversions will be necessary. Vehicles heading towards Antwerp will utilize two narrowed lanes, with one lane temporarily redirected in the opposite direction using a bypass. The center lane will remain open as a safety zone between the two directions.
Authorities urge motorists to drive cautiously, adhere to the reduced speed limits, and expect delays during peak hours. The Beervelde exit towards Antwerp will remain closed until the end of August 2025, compelling drivers to take a detour via the E17 towards Ghent, proceed to the R4, turn around at the Destelbergen exit, and continue back on the E17 towards Antwerp.
Local traffic can still access the Beervelde interchange towards Ghent. The closures aim to facilitate the renewal of the right-hand lane and enhance the road’s foundation.
Officials have assigned a speed limit of 50 km/h for vehicles heading towards Antwerp, while traffic in the direction of Ghent is limited to 70 km/h. Long vehicles exceeding 20 meters are prohibited from using temporary crossings, with police monitoring the area via speed cameras to ensure compliance.
In the summer of 2023, the AWV initiated extensive asphalt renewal on the E17 between Beervelde and Lokeren, aiming to improve road quality as part of a comprehensive infrastructure enhancement initiative across Flanders. The previous year, significant asphalt work was also carried out on the E17 between Lokeren and Waasmunster, focusing on resurfacing and lane improvements to meet growing traffic demands.
