Shandong province started construction on 307 key projects in the first quarter of this year, with an investment of 69.01 billion yuan ($10.56 billion), according to statistics from the Shandong Provincial Development and Reform Commission.

A construction site of Jinan Rail Transit Line 4 (Phase I) [Photo/jnsb.e23.cn]

Jinan Rail Transit Line 4 (Phase I), which will span a total length of about 40.2 kilometers and have 33 stations, is one of the major projects in Shandong this year. After completion, it will play an important role in easing the traffic pressure in downtown Jinan and strengthening the east-west connection of the city.

"Up to now, there are eight stations starting construction, including Xiaogaozhuang Station, Lashan Station, and Lixia Square Station," said a site engineer. "Since the construction started in March this year, the project has been progressing smoothly. The remaining stations are making full efforts to advance the pre-stage work."

Governments at all levels in Shandong have made great efforts to facilitate the construction of key projects, which will contribute greatly to regional social and economic growth, said Shandong authorities.