SINGAPORE: Roads along the Singapore Formula One track will be closed in stages so that resurfacing works can begin.

So far, the S$23.8 million roadworks, that are already being carried out, are proceeding as planned.

The Land Transport Authority said the circuit will be completed two weeks ahead of schedule.

To prepare for the speed demons at the inaugural F1 race, the road has to be resurfaced with a special asphalt, which is darker than what is normally used.

A stretch at Raffles Avenue has already been laid with the stronger surface, using what is called the Polymer Modified Binder (PMB).

It is a special mix that will enable the road to withstand greater forces that are necessary for the race cars.

The resurfacing works, which will be done in stages, starts on 4 April at Raffles Boulevard. The road closure will be from midnight to 6am the next morning.

On most occasions, works will be carried out from Sundays till Thursdays, when traffic is not as heavy as compared to the weekend. In some cases, one lane will remain open to traffic.

Yap Boon Leong, Director, Road Construction, Land Transport Authority, said: "Whenever we do resurfacing work, there will be alternative access to be given to stakeholders, so that their accesses are not adversely impacted. We will also put up well ahead directional signs and we have engaged auxiliary police and also traffic marshals to guide traffic."

Besides Raffles Boulevard, other roads affected include Nicholl Highway, Stamford Road, St Andrew’s Road, Anderson Bridge, Esplanade Drive and Raffles Avenue.

Some of the works will not affect motorists. One example is the floating platform. The Promenade area at the floating platform will be widened from 10 to 22 metres.

Other changes include removing 89 seats from the structure to make way for a run—off area, which is a kind of safety allowance for the cars as they turn and connect back into Raffles Avenue.

New roads will also be constructed next to the Singapore Flyer and the Pit building.

The Land Transport Authority said the biggest challenge is completing the necessary works in the short time available.

To meet strict requirements set by the International Automobile Federation (FIA), the entire width of the track has to be laid, at one go, in one single operation to prevent what is known as cold’ joints or unevenness. This is unlike regular resurfacing works which can be done lane by lane.

Resurfacing is the final phase of the road works. Others include removal of traffic islands.

Despite the tight deadline, work is expected to finish by 7 June and that is when the LTA will hand over the project to the F1 organisers. — CNA/vm

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