Concerns are mounting over the Sh2 billion Greenpark pedestrian underpass in Nairobi after Members of Parliament questioned its design, quality of construction, and compliance with accessibility standards.
The Transport and Infrastructure Committee of the National Assembly, which inspected the site, said the project may not serve the intended purpose despite its huge cost.
Lawmakers said the tunnel, located where Haile Selassie Avenue meets Uhuru Highway, does not reflect value for money. Their main criticism centred on the elevators meant to serve persons with disabilities, which they described as too small, and the absence of a ramp as required by law. They also expressed dissatisfaction with the small commercial spaces allocated for the 39 shops within the underpass.
“The project is impressive in idea but wanting in execution,” said Ndia MP George Kariuki, who chairs the committee. “We cannot fail to point out some gaps. For a project worth Sh2 billion, we expected a better design.”
His colleague, Nakuru Town West MP Samuel Arama, echoed the same concern, saying the design overlooks the needs of people living with disabilities. “There is no value for money here,” said Arama. “While the law provides for a ramp for people with disabilities, this one doesn’t have one.”
He added that without a ramp, the elevators alone cannot guarantee accessibility. “It is a good project. However, what happens if the elevators fail or there is no electricity to power them? People with disabilities will be stranded.” The MPs said the elevators can barely accommodate two wheelchairs, raising fears of safety hazards should the lifts malfunction or power fail.
The pedestrian tunnel, being constructed by China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and financed through the Roads Maintenance Levy Fund, was initially scheduled to take 12 months.
The completion period was later extended by about five months, from March 13 to August 3,2025 by which time at least 97 per cent of work was expected to be done.
The Greenpark underpass comprises four tunnels: a 106-metre stretch under Haile Selassie Avenue on the CBD side, a curved passage under Uhuru Highway heading toward Mombasa, a 29.6-metre tunnel on the Upper Hill side, and another 40.4-metre one beneath Uhuru Highway toward Westlands.
Roads Principal Secretary Joseph Mbugua assured the legislators that the issues raised will be addressed.
“We will look at the issues raised. It is crucial for us to ensure Kenyans can clearly see the value for their money. We will make sure there is a 24-hour police patrol base around the facility and a holding room for those who have ulterior motives,” he said.
The remaining works include mechanical and electrical installations, interior finishing, landscaping, and the setup of CCTV and other security systems.
Once fully completed, the underpass is expected to decongest the busy Greenpark and Haile Selassie roundabout area, improve safety, and ease pedestrian movement across the city’s major roads.
