Roadwork delays far worse than predicted near Kolding, with disruption expected until 2028

Motorists using the E20 and E45 highways near Kolding face daily delays of up to 20 minutes—far exceeding the two to three minutes initially forecast by the Danish Road Directorate, DR reports. The congestion, caused by ongoing expansion work, is expected to persist until the project’s completion in 2028.

Drivers describe the daily gridlock as “extremely frustrating,” with long queues forming during both morning and afternoon peak hours. Kevin Zwaneveld, a regular commuter, told DR he now spends an extra 15 to 20 minutes each way due to the roadworks. “It doesn’t work very well with the traffic here,” he said. Another motorist, Alexander Fogh, reported similar delays, calling the situation “a daily 20-minute setback every time I pass through.”

Traffic broadcaster P4 Trafik confirmed the widespread disruption, noting near-constant congestion since the work began on March 9. “We’re seeing heavy traffic almost around the clock,” said presenter Line Paarse. “Mornings and afternoons, there’s pretty much a queue every single day.” Observed delays align with driver reports, averaging 15 to 20 minutes—well beyond official estimates.

The Danish Road Directorate acknowledged the underestimation, attributing the severe congestion to the high volume of vehicles—around 75,000 daily—compounded by merging traffic from two major highways. “The theory didn’t match reality,” admitted project manager Mette Vikjær. “Because there’s so much congestion, it doesn’t take much to tip into something much worse.”

With construction set to continue until 2028, Vikjær warned that significant improvements are unlikely before then, particularly during rush hours. “I don’t think it will get fully better until we’re finished in 2028,” she said. The agency is now adjusting signage and exploring further measures to mitigate the disruption.