The Libyan Reconstruction and Development Fund has confirmed that work is continuing on the ambitious Jeliana development project in Benghazi, which includes the construction of five bridges and a nine-hole golf course.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the fund said the contracted company is pressing ahead with operations, with the overall completion rate reaching 68%. The project also involves upgrading the lake and surrounding areas, in what officials describe as one of the most significant initiatives to enhance the city’s urban landscape.
The development plan for Jeliana was first detailed in mid-August. Project director Turcay Erdogan said the works cover an area of around 1.7 million square metres, including a 600,000-square-metre lake and 1.1 million square metres of surrounding land.
The works involve cleaning and beautifying the lake, alongside the creation of a 5.1-kilometre jogging track and dedicated cycling paths. Recreational spaces are central to the project, with the addition of sports facilities, children’s playgrounds, cafés and restaurants. Erdogan confirmed that construction is also under way on the retaining wall surrounding the lake.
Last November, demolition began on several decaying bridges along the route linking the Iron Bridge on Tripoli Road to Jeliana Bridge and the Sports City Bridge. The fund said these removals paved the way for new infrastructure, in line with a comprehensive redevelopment plan aimed at transforming the area into a modern and attractive destination.
Officials argue that the Jeliana development will not only improve daily life for Benghazi’s residents but also create a vibrant hub for leisure, sport and tourism. The project is viewed as a flagship model of the Reconstruction and Development Fund’s efforts to reshape key Libyan cities.
