Brussels, 22/08/2013 (Agence Europe) - The European Union will contribute up to €35.6 million for the construction of a highway in the Spanish region of Murcia - in other words, up to a third of the total cost of the project of €111.4 million. On 20 August, the European Commission decided that this large project would benefit from this funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The project involves the construction of 30 km of dual carriageway with two lanes each way, with a cycle track running down the side. Since 2010 the highway has connected the interior of Murcia with the Spanish coast (from Santomera to Mar Menor). The project contributes to lowering traffic on the Murcia-Cartagena highway, and to boosting the region's economy by enabling the development of industrial parks and residential areas in the towns nearby. Furthermore, 240 jobs have been created for the construction and maintenance of the infrastructure. European Commissioner for Regional Development Johannes Hahn stated that this highway project played a crucial role “in connecting people and business in the Murcia region”. He also underlined that it brings “clear improvements to the quality of life of all residents in the area”. (MD/transl.fl)