Around three million euros in European subsidies were granted for large-scale infrastructure projects around Leuven.
Leuven faces significant challenges in the coming years as it rapidly grows in population and economic importance, forming the heart of a swiftly expanding knowledge economy.
The city aims to keep Leuven and key centres like the Arenberg Science Park, UZ Leuven, and the future Leuven North science park accessible to all road users while ensuring sustainable urban development.
The prime focus is the Kessel-Lo Junction, a crucial link between Leuven station and the new Leuven North science park. It will feature secure and efficient connections with extensive cycling infrastructure, including a new cycling bridge, space for new construction projects, and improved station access.
"The junction aims to combine traffic safety, smooth flow, and quality of life," says Dirk Vansina, Leuven’s councillor for Mobility and Spatial Planning.
Additionally, the European subsidy will fund research into other important mobility infrastructure in Leuven, such as the bus station. Leuven’s station is among the busiest hubs in Flanders, but its "organised safe chaos" approach often leads to unsafe situations. A 27-year-old student died in 2024, and an 80-year-old pedestrian was severely injured a few months ago.
Several major traffic arteries will also be upgraded, including Diestsesteenweg and the Leuven Ring and Mechelsesteenweg. "These funds accelerate all these projects," says Vansina.
Leuven, the Agency for Roads and Traffic, and De Lijn jointly submitted a subsidy application to the European CEF fund to finance the preparation of these infrastructure projects. Europe will cover half of the nearly six million euro costs for studies and personnel.
