Urban design occasioned by the underwater highway

Students :  Efthalia Lestou, Despoina Litsa
Supervisor: N. Kalogirou, A. Paka.
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki _ School of Architecture
Presentation date: February 2009

The necessity of avoiding driving through the center of Thessalonica, which consisted the primary reason for the initial blueprint for the construction of the underwater highway, was also the fact that inspired this new proposition of the project's expansion.

The initial proposal is partially incomplete and, thus, it is proposed to be completed in three phases. Phase one involves the improvements that should take place in the existing plan for the artery. The second phase refers to the artery's expansion to the east through a floating road parallel to the city's seaside, whereas phase three considers the artery's connection to the city's road network.

The floating highway offers a pleasant ride across the sea side with a unique view of Thessalonica and the gulf of Thermaikos. The proposition for the construction of an extended pavement/park across the seaside, offers a unique view to the city and the sea that is currently available only from a boat.

The proposed construction when combined with an urban development project will upgrade the area. All the proposed works follow a modern design, using materials friendly to the environment. The park consists of decks with similar heights which are unified, creating an extended pavement. The view through the gulf is not limited, but highlighted through the areas of green located on the decks. In certain points are located sitting points, exhibition areas, as well as locations for indoor and outdoor and cultural activities. The presence of the floating highway creates a basin with water naturally renewed, which is protected from strong waves; thus, it gives the opportunity of developing water sports and various other activities. The linear shape of the basin offers also the opportunity of constructing an Olympic oar track.

If all quality standards are met, the result will transform the water-front of Thessalonica, up to the mark of a developed city of 21th century.