D4 Highway Via Salis
Since 2021, VINCI Highways leds the consortium consisting in equal parts of VINCI and Meridiam (50/50) for the D4 highway linking Příbram (Central Bohemia) to Písek (South Bohemia) in Czech Republic.
This is the first public-private partnership (PPP) highway contract ever awarded in the country.
The project consists in designing, finance, build, operate and maintain a new 32 km highway and converting 17 km of existing infrastructure into a dual two-lane carriageway. The new highway will provide an improved road connection between rural South Bohemia and Prague, consequently fostering economic and social development, and will also contribute to improving traffic conditions on the country’s major commercial routes, particularly towards neighbouring Germany and Austria. The contract is for 28 years (including approximately 4 years of construction work) and represents an investment of some CZK 16.5 billion.
In January 2022, the project has won the prestigious international PFI (Project Finance International) Awards 2021 for the best European PPP (Public Private Partnership) project. The PFI Awards annually recognize the world's most outstanding achievements in project finance.
Connecting regions and boosting economic growth
The new D4 highway serves as a critical link between Příbram and Písek, regions with significant economic activities. The new artery will improve mobility between the rural areas of South Bohemia and the major economic routes to neighbouring Germany and Austria.
By improving connectivity, Via Salis reduces travel times, enhances trade routes, and stimulates local economies. According to analyzed traffic data, road users save an average of 20 minutes of travel time by taking the D4, significantly supporting regional development and integration.
Ambitious environmental strategy
Via Salis demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability right from the construction phase and during operation cycle.
The construction process emphasizes recycling, with 1,9 million m³ of excavated materials repurposed and an impressive 60% of asphalt was recycled, reducing environmental impact. Environmental design features, such as stormwater retention ponds and wildlife crossings, are complemented by a "zero pesticide" policy, ensuring that biodiversity is preserved throughout the route.
New storm water retention ponds, wildlife crossings and a “zero pesticide commitment” will contribute to preserving biodiversity. Via Salis is also pioneering a groundbreaking transformation, converting 400 000 m² of areas along the highway into flourishing wild meadows. Specially selected seeds enriched with herbs will foster biodiversity, while 10 beehives placed along the route contribute to local ecosystems.
Ensuring quality of service
Via Salis Operations, a 100% subsidiary of VINCI Highways, is responsible for operation and maintenance.
The D4 will be the largest highway operated with a full-BIM solution in the country.
A team of 44 operators including mechanic, electricians, patrol men and maintenance dispatchers work in coordinated teams, ensure that responses to incidents or emergencies are swift and effective. Reaction times are close to immediate, providing a secure travel environment.
The traffic is monitored continuously, with full CCTV coverage allowing teams to identify drivers in need and react fast.
A network of 28 variable message signs and 27 traffic analyzers, which analyze various data such as the number of vehicles or their weight, ensures real-time updates and smooth traffic management, while weather stations ensure the teams are always ready across changing conditions.
Emergency support is readily accessible with 48 SOS telephones strategically placed along the route, allowing rapid assistance when needed.
The operational fleet for Via Salis features advanced vehicles, including five 6×4 trucks and two 8×4 trucks dedicated to winter maintenance. This ensures the highway remains clear and safe, even in harsh conditions. For other maintenance needs, the fleet also features 1 sweeper, 1 loader, 2 vans, and 3 tipper trucks. Traffic safety is enhanced by 6 large signal trailers and 4 smaller ones used to guide and alert drivers effectively.
In support of these operations, additional specialized equipment from Slovakia is also deployed, including a Metrac tractor and a Spider remote-controlled slope mower for efficient maintenance of roadside slopes. This sophisticated, well-equipped fleet, combined with modern technology and a dedicated team, reflects Via Salis's Operations commitment to safety, reliability, and high-quality service for all road users.