NAIROBI — Pedestrians crossing the busy Greenpark terminus roundabout in Nairobi will soon have a safer route underground. Kenya National Highways Authority Director General Luka Kimeli inspected the site Thursday and announced the Sh2 billion project hits 99 percent completion.

“We anticipate that come March, we shall have completed the remaining areas, so that in another 2-3 months, say by June, we should be having the public using this facility,” Kimeli said.

Workers now focus on covering drainages and installing a manhole to collect and pump out spilled water. CCTV cameras already monitor the tunnels. Lights illuminate the space. Seven elevators serve people with disabilities.

The underpass splits into four tunnels totaling 176 meters. Tunnel 1 links Haile Selassie Avenue to the Railways area. Tunnel 2 crosses under Mombasa Road. Tunnel 3 heads to Upper Hill. Tunnel 4 directs toward Westlands. Tactile tiles guide those with visual impairments.

KeNHA plans round-the-clock security through a nearby police station. “We rely on the nearest police station so that they can give us manpower almost daily, round the clock,” Kimeli said.

China Roads and Bridge Corporation built the underpass as part of city traffic improvements. It includes 39 stalls and shops to draw foot traffic, boost security and create business spots. Another contractor will take over management, leasing and maintenance once handed off.

Kimeli expects the underpass to handle 1,000 people on low days and up to 8,500 during peak hours, averaging 2,000 daily. Financing delays slowed progress. This project serves as a pilot. Success could unlock funds for five or six more at other junctions.

“The challenge has been financing, but we are happy that this is a pilot one, so that once we are through with this, then we look for additional funding to be able to move ahead and do the same on about 5-6 junctions,” the KeNHA boss said.

Thousands of commuters now dodge fast traffic at the roundabout tying major roads. The underpass promises a direct, protected path. Completion marks a step forward for pedestrian safety in Kenya’s capital.