The massive Rogfast Tunnel project for Norway will boost transport for the nation, providing new road links. However, the Transport Ministry has warned that construction work for the E39 Smiene - Harestad road section is crucial for progress on the Rogfast Tunnel. This stretch of the E39 should be sufficiently ready so that it can be tested along with the tunnel stretch in 2032, according to the ministry.
Only once the two have been fully tested can the E39 stretch and Rogfast Tunnel be opened fully for use and this is not expected until 2033. Once the E39 Smiene - Harestad stretch is complete it will link the Rogfast Tunnel with the E39 Eiganestunnelen from Randaberg to Stavanger. The route will feature two lanes in either direction. The project is being managed by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, Statens Vegvesen.
Skanska won the contract to build the northern section of the 27km tunnel, while Implenia Norge won the package of works to build the southern part of the tunnel. Implenia and Stangeland will construct the central section of the tunnel.
The tunnel was originally intended to be open in 2026 but various technical and economic challenges have delayed the opening until 2033.
