SOS Road Rehabilitation

Economic and social development in Cap-Haitien

Strategically located for maritime trade and tourism, Cap-Haïtien — the second-largest city in Haiti — relies on the quality of its road infrastructure for economic growth. The SOS Road extends approximately 7 kilometers and links the city’s main districts, connecting National Routes NR1 to the west and NR3 to the east. This vital roadway had fallen into an advanced state of deterioration and was highly vulnerable to flooding — compromising local mobility and user safety.

Rehabilitation of the roadway was necessary to modernize this vital urban artery, enhance the area’s resilience and support regional development. The project notably included design of a new roadway axis, optimization of drainage systems and construction of civil structures, including a 60-meter-long bridge to improve stormwater management and provide long-term durability.

Multidisciplinary solutions for rehabilitation

In collaboration with GENINOV, EXP’s multidisciplinary team conducted preliminary studies and designed rehabilitation of the SOS Road and civil structures. Studies performed included topographic, geological, geotechnical, hydrological and hydraulic studies. Our team analyzed the Any and Haut-du-Cap rivers and reprofiled their beds in areas for the new bridge and the nearby airport.

EXP drafted the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP), providing recommendations for river diversion, rehabilitating the SOS Road pavement structure, analyzing the new NR1–NR3 road link and conducting public consultations. The last step consisted of preparing the tender documents.

Improved infrastructure for the community

To support regional development objectives, the project improved urban infrastructure by modernizing the roadway, improving intersection safety and constructing a new bridge over the Haut-du-Cap River. The addition of sidewalks, lighting systems and public transit stops enhanced the quality of public spaces, while new drainage measures reduced flood risks and increased the area’s resilience.

By improving accessibility in the area, the project fosters development of local economic activity and facilitates the establishment of businesses. With participation of local companies and workers, the project further strengthens positive economic impacts by creating jobs, supporting commercial development and contributing to the revitalization of city neighborhoods.

Services

Hydrology, Civil, Geotechnical, Pavement, Survey and Geomatics, Bridge Design, Traffic