The opening of this phase of the project is part of a phased plan to gradually open the completed parts of Al Salam Street Upgrading Project. This initial phase entails the provision of 740 parking slots, installation of 50 traffic signal poles fitted with 206 light heads, and 120 street lighting poles fitted with LED system; which endures lighting over extended periods with minimal maintenance requirements and saves power consumption to the least possible level; thus contributes to minimizing carbon dioxide emissions and conserving the environment, the municipality said. This initial phase took 27 million hours of work to complete and was constructed in conformity with the Urban Streets Design Manual published by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council. Due attention was given to traffic safety issues throughout the construction of the project considering it a top priority for the Municipality of Abu Dhabi City. In coordination with the Abu Dhabi Police General HQ, the Municipality called on motorists heading to the Tourist Club and Al Mina areas to use the existing route, and urged them to observe driving & traffic guidelines, adhere to speed limits and traffic signals and comply with the security & safety measures for their own safety and a smooth traffic flow as well. According to the project plan, construction works are set for completion during the next few months and the Municipality is keen on capitalizing on all circumstances that help alleviate congestion and ease the traffic flow as much as possible. Al Salam Street project culminates a fruitful cooperation between the Municipality of Abu Dhabi City, Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, Department of Transport and Abu Dhabi Police General HQ. The project is part of the strategy pursued by the Municipality of Abu Dhabi City to keep pace with the urban development, and cope with the needs of the current and projected demographic expansion. The Street will have a capacity to handle 12,000 vehicles per hour in both directions; which will secure smooth traffic flow by offering an alternative bypassing the light signals of Al Salam Street in a non-stop journey across Abu Dhabi Island from Sheikh Zayed Bridge up to Al Mina. Upon completion, the project is set to bring about environmental benefits as well in terms of reducing vehicle stop time, which in turn minimizes emissions from vehicle exhausts. Moreover, the central system of Al Salam Street tunnels is one of the most sophisticated systems worldwide aimed at ensuring the highest standards of security & safety for road users, the civic body concluded.