- Mayor Alexis Kalokairinos oversees construction on Ikarou Avenue.
- The project focuses on a 550-meter pedestrian-friendly pathway.
- Upgrades include repairing and widening damaged sidewalks.
- Plans for five additional pedestrian routes in various city areas.
- Aimed at improving accessibility for residents and tourists.
Not one to sit on the sidelines, Alexis Kalokairinos decided to trade the desk for a morning inspection tour. On February 11th, while most people were enjoying their coffee, the Mayor of Heraklion was out bright and early, checking on the construction of the city’s first pedestrian route to the center. Located on Ikarou Avenue, this 550-meter section of sidewalk connects the intercity KTEL bus station to the Archaeological Museum. And, trust us, it’s a much-needed makeover.
The Cost of Shabby Sidewalks
The sidewalks here were no great shakes—cracked, narrow, and downright depressing. The city is finally addressing these issues. Crews are widening the paths and moving to a “brushed concrete” finish (read: durable and trendy) to create a smooth, seamless walking experience. This means fewer twisted ankles and disgruntled tourists playing real-life Frogger to reach the city center.
But wait, there’s more. This reimagined walkway is only the beginning. It’s the first of six routes designed to help pedestrians safely navigate various bustling parts of Heraklion. Because who has time for dodging traffic when you’re just trying to find some decent souvlaki?
What’s Next? Game Plan for Five Additional Routes
If you think this is a one-and-done project, think again. There are five more routes already lined up:
- Geronymaki Street: A 250-meter link between Pateles and the center, ending at Georgiadis Park.
- Emmanouil Xanthou Street: A 480-meter pathway tying Ikarou Avenue to school complexes.
- Christomichalis Xylouri Street: A 650-meter stretch connecting the OAED vocational school to Giofyros.
- Itanou and Friends (Itanou, Filellinon, Skepetzi, and Pitsoulaki): A whopping 3.45-kilometer route connecting Kipoupoli with National Resistance Avenue and various school facilities.
- Patriarchou Grigoriou E’ and Pindarou Streets: An 800-meter pathway linking Mastabas neighborhoods to Georgiou Georgiadi Street.
In short, this isn’t just about one pretty pavement, it’s a city-wide effort to give walkers a fighting chance.
Before you start mapping out your walking routes, take note: construction is still in progress and will extend to other neighborhoods in the next few weeks. If you’re curious about the official announcement in Greek, check it out here. Pictures are available on Facebook.
