US-based KBR has been awarded a $185m extension to its programme management consultancy contract for Qatar’s QR50bn ($14bn) Expressway Programme.

The extension means KBR will provide programme management services for the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) for another three years. The firm was initially awarded the role in 2010.

The Expressway Programme comprises 40 major projects, 900 kilometres of new and upgraded roads, and 348 bridges and underpasses. It will connect the south of Doha with the north, and the east with the west.

The programme is an important element of the state’s road-building measures to reduce congestion and journey times, and improve traffic flow, while helping achieve the government’s sustainability objectives.

Similar to the country’s rail and other infrastructure projects, the improved roads will support the influx of visitors expected during the 2022 Fifa football World Cup and Qatar’s long-term vision to become a regional and international business hub.

The projects have been divided into separate design, construction and supervision contracts. The design consultancy is being separated into concept design and preliminary detailed and design support.

As of January 2016, an estimated $11.5bn-worth of road schemes under the programme were under construction, with another $4.3bn at the procurement stage. Some $2.3bn-worth of projects have been completed.

The largest packages currently under construction include the New Orbital Highway and Truck Route, and the Doha-Dukhan Highway.