Kasterlee advances 800,000 euros for roadworks as Flemish agency delays payment

The Pastorijstraat in Kasterlee, a key route to the town center, has reopened after extensive roadworks, but the municipality is still awaiting reimbursement for its upfront payment of 800,000 euros. The works, which included renewing the sewage system and roadway, and adding safe new bike and pedestrian paths, were a joint effort agreed upon by Kasterlee, the Agency for Roads and Traffic (AWV), and Aquafin. The AWV, as the road administrator, was expected to co-finance the project, particularly as it aimed to improve safety around a local school. However, when the contractor was ready to begin in February, the AWV cited funding issues, stating it had other priorities and insufficient resources. The AWV now indicates that reimbursement is tied to a multi-year investment plan scheduled for 2027-2029. This decision has frustrated Kasterlee's mayor, Ward Kennes, who called it a "political error" that needs swift correction. He emphasized that the municipality chose not to wait for the plan and proceeded with the essential works. Kennes noted that the AWV's share of the costs, estimated at over 800,000 euros, has not been paid, though the municipality is confident about receiving funds for the sewage works from the Flemish Environmental Company. He also highlighted that many municipalities in the Kempen region face similar funding delays from the AWV, and discussions are underway through various channels to resolve the issue.

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It is in my eyes a political error that must be corrected quickly.