The new portal structure on the M1 was installed in the pouring rain

Judging by the photos, even the occasional downpours could not prevent the contractors working on the M1 motorway extension from installing one of the key components of the motorway’s information system. According to information from MKIF, the gantry sign structure spanning the Biatorbágy section of the M1 was assembled and erected in the early hours of Sunday morning.

That’s all they’ll use it for

The developer’s post also details the function of the structure currently under construction. According to this, the information boards and road signs will be mounted on this structure, and variable message signs (VMS) will also be installed here at a later date. In addition to all this, these structures will also support the digital displays that will be used in the future intelligent traffic management system.

They add that, on the section in question, traffic will be able to flow across 2×5 lanes, including the slip roads. As part of the work in question, the 12-tonne, 21-metre-wide and 8.5-metre-high support structure was erected above the five lanes heading towards the capital.

„Prior to this, the portal structure was assembled on the ground and then lifted into place in three sections using a crane – on Saturday night, for example, in the pouring rain,” the post reads.

As well as the expansion, operations must also be ensured

The work could only be carried out whilst the track side heading towards Budapest was completely closed, which is why it was necessary to restrict traffic at night. The MKIF emphasises that, wherever and whenever possible, the expansion works should be carried out from the construction site and the service roads alongside the track, so as to cause the least possible disruption to traffic on the main line.

Turning to the details of the traffic, they write,

A 2×2-lane carriageway will be maintained for traffic in both directions throughout the entire duration of the expansion works. In addition, alongside the expansion works, normal operations on the M1 motorway must also be maintained: this includes, for example, sign replacement, maintenance of road clamps and repairs to guardrails. The vast majority of this work is already carried out at night

– concludes the report.