The new F25 cycle highway, connecting the stations of Aarschot and Leuven, will start construction on Monday, October 5. Contractor Viabuild will undertake the works within the municipality of Aarschot. The approximately 3-kilometer route begins at Aarschot station and extends past Vorsdonkbos, where it will connect to the route towards Leuven.
Gerry Vranken, alderman for Public Works, emphasizes that the city of Aarschot is the client for this project, in close collaboration with the engineering firm and the province of Flemish Brabant. The cycle highway is 100% funded by subsidies from the province and the Flemish government.
Annick Geyskens, alderman for Mobility, explains that the route will utilize existing roads and newly constructed sections, largely parallel to the Aarschot-Leuven railway line. A barrier will separate the cycle highway from the tracks, focusing on safety, comfort, and minimal obstacles.
The project is divided into four segments. In Nieuwland, a passage will be created along the railway with a 4-meter wide cycle highway. This section includes three bridges, the first of which will feature a covered rest area with an information pillar and seating. Near Turfputten, the F25 will reconnect to the existing road and be designed as a cycle street with red asphalt surfacing.
The Turfputten - Vorsdonkbos section will be a 3-meter wide cycle highway bordering the nature reserve, with an underpass for crossing animals at the railway barrier. Between Turfputten and Gelrode station, the cycle highway will be constructed with red asphalt up to Vosdonker.
The Baan op Rotselaar will be designated as a cycle street up to the municipal border, with a red asphalt top layer. At the intersection with the Begijnendijksesteenweg, a cycle tunnel will be built, rerouting motorized traffic to eliminate crossings.
Preparatory works, including the removal of necessary trees and shrubs, will commence on Monday, October 5. The actual road construction will be carried out in phases, with completion expected by the summer holidays next year.
Mayor Gwendolyn Rutten describes the construction as a significant step towards safe and efficient mobility between Aarschot and Leuven, featuring wide and car-free cycle paths. Deputy for Mobility Bart Nevens adds that the investment of nearly three million euros, in collaboration with Flanders, will remove a major bottleneck with the new cycle tunnel.
