STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Sept. 23, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Skanska (Other OTC:SKSBF) (LSE:SKABQ) Sweden will be responsible for the largest contract on the construction of the Botniabanan rail line in northern Sweden, the stretch between Offersjon and Bjallstaan, south of Ornskoldsvik. The contract for the design-construct project is valued at approximately SEK 1.3 billion and is included in order bookings for the third quarter of 2003.
"Overall Skanska presented the most favorable bid," says Lennart Westberg, President of Botniabanan AB. "We have secured a strong and competent organization with all the prerequisites to deliver a product that meets our highest demands on quality and the environment."
The stretch of rail line to be constructed is approximately 30 kilometers long, of which 11 kilometers will consist of two tunnels of five and six kilometers each in length.
"We are proud to have earned Botniabanan's confidence and look forward to cooperating further on the largest infrastructure project currently under way in Sweden," says Kenneth Nilsson, Executive Vice President, Skanska Sweden. "It is also highly pleasing to secure a contract of this size."
The section of line between Offersjon and Bjallstaan will primarily pass through forested and rocky terrain with no established communities. In addition to two tunnels, the project will include construction of the track bed and track-laying work.
"The tunnels will pass through highly stable rock formations and will be constructed using conventional drilling and blasting techniques," explains Kenneth Nilsson.
The project will provide employment for some 100 persons plus subcontractors, primarily for groundwork and transportation.
The Botnia rail link stretches from Kramfors to Umea. Skanska has already secured nine contracts on various sections of the line.
These are of varying size and include bridges, tunnels, bed terracing and installation work. Assuming that the contract is not challenged in accordance with the Public Procurement Act, the new contract becomes valid after ten days.
For further information on the Botnia rail line, see www.botniabanan.se.
This and previous releases can also be found at www.skanska.com
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