The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality recently prepared its budget for its 2016 projects. Three new tunnels and a tram between the Eminönü and Alibeyköy districts on the European side are among the most notable projects set to be carried out in 2016.

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality plans to construct three interconnected highway tunnels on the European side of the city: A 2-kilometer tunnel between Dolmabahçe and Fulya, a 4-kilometer one between Fulya and Levazım and a 6-kilometer one between Levazım and Baltalimanı.

Additionally, a 10-kilometer tramline will be constructed between bus stations in Eminönü and Alibeyköy. A budget of TL 492 million ($171.5 million) has been allocated for the construction of the tramline, which is expected to be completed in four years and will run along the Golden Horn.

Public transport vehicles will also see changes in 2016. All minibuses and minibus taxis currently accept cash only but in 2016 will switch to the Istanbulkart, which is a contactless smart card, for fare payment.

Additionally, a budget of TL 15 million has been allocated for the landscaping of İstiklal Avenue.

Construction work on an undersea tunnel between the Golden Horn and Unkapanı will also start soon.