Mobility and Water Management Score High Marks in Brakel
The renovated Ronsesestraat (N48) marks an important milestone in improving traffic safety and water management in the region. It now serves as a safe, modern, and sustainable connection between Brakel and Ronse, exemplifying how infrastructure and drainage projects contribute to a better living environment.
- Client
- Gemeente Brakel, Farys, AWV, Aquafin
- Services
- Wastewater treatment & integrated water systems, road design
Commissioned by the municipality of Brakel, Farys, AWV, and Aquafin, the project focused on the construction of safe bike paths (Module 13), the complete renovation of the underground sewer infrastructure, and the renewal of the surface structure. Sweco played a key role in this project, handling everything from the preliminary design and PAC traffic committee to the design, tendering, and monitoring of the execution up to the completion. Contractor Willemen Infra was responsible for the successful realization of the project.
A festive opening took place in the presence of Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and Flemish Minister of Mobility and Public Works Lydia Peeters.
Complexity Requires Close Collaboration
The road was renewed from the Roundabout in Brakel to Vloesberg in Hainaut, covering nearly 5 km in length. The concrete road received an asphalt top layer, and new separated bike paths were constructed. New utility lines, new sidewalks between the Roundabout and Sint-Martensstraat, and new lighting in the built-up area were also installed. At the same time, a water reservoir was constructed under the Roundabout in Brakel to capture excess water and mitigate flooding.
Site manager Simon Vanassche reflects: “One of the biggest challenges of this project was the long lead time of almost 20 years. The original contract and design date back to 2004. Fortunately, we could rely on excellent knowledge exchange among the various Sweco colleagues involved.”
Project leader Lise Castelein adds: “The complexity of renewing both the substructure with all utility lines and the superstructure with new bike paths between existing houses made this one of the most complex road projects ever in Brakel. Thanks to the commitment and collaboration of experts from various disciplines, we successfully brought this project to completion.”
Bicycle Safety and Water Management Are Paramount
Active road users have enjoyed a road surface that meets modern standards since the reconstruction. The new separated bike paths have replaced the dangerous “death strips,” providing a safe and pleasant route for cyclists. Pedestrians now have a comfortable footpath connecting Nederbrakel to Opbrakel.
Additionally, all homes are connected to a separated sewer system, meaning that wastewater no longer flows directly into the ditches and streams. The result? A cleaner environment and reduced risk of flooding. A second phase is currently in design, which will connect the side streets to the sewer system. This will further improve the efficiency of the sewer system and contribute to even better water management in the region.
