By Robert Mutasi 
The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has extended the closure of Eldoret Road in Nairobi to December 30, 2026, to allow the contractor to complete construction of a vehicular bridge across the Nairobi River.
The road was initially expected to reopen on September 18, but KURA said the project had been affected by delays in the delivery of critical construction materials and equipment, alongside other unforeseen challenges at the site.
In a public notice, the authority said the revised timeline would enable the contractor to complete the remaining works while meeting the required safety and quality standards.
“KURA and the contractor remain committed to completing the works to the required safety and quality standards within the revised timeline,” the authority said.
The extended closure will affect motorists using the road between the Pumwani and Eastlands areas of Nairobi. Traffic management measures will remain in place, with road users advised to use alternative routes throughout the construction period.
KURA also urged motorists to follow directions from traffic police officers and traffic marshals deployed around the affected area to ease traffic movement.
The authority apologised to motorists, pedestrians and other road users for the disruption caused by the project.
Eldoret Road serves as an important link between several residential areas and major routes towards Jogoo Road. It connects traffic from Eastleigh through 18th Street, Ole Sironi and 19th Street to Uhuru Estate via Athi Road.
The road also provides access to Wangu Road and Heshima Avenue, offering an alternative connection towards Jogoo Road.
The bridge project is particularly important for public transport operators because matatus travelling between Jogoo Road and Nairobi city centre often use the route when traffic congestion builds up along Jogoo Road during peak hours.
Construction of the vehicular bridge began on May 18, 2026, with the works initially scheduled for completion by September 18.
The latest extension means motorists will have to contend with the closure for more than three months beyond the original completion date.
A temporary pedestrian bridge has been installed at the construction site to provide pedestrians with access to and from Uhuru Estate while the main works continue.
KURA said the revised completion date would give the contractor additional time to address the outstanding works and deliver the bridge in line with the required safety and quality standards.
Motorists using the area have been advised to plan their journeys in advance and allow additional travel time because of the continued traffic diversions.