Award to Astaldi of 2.93 km Monte Mario twin-tube tunnel in west of city to be excavated at 150 sq m section in clay, silt, sand using roadheader with steel arches and shotcrete for first 1.25 km and cut-and-cover for remainder. Value $55 million for commencement January, 2001 and completion May, 2002. Visit www.astaldi.it November 2000.Rome's city council has appointed Astaldi to develop the Appia Antica tunnel under a 30-year concession contract. The preliminary project submitted by Astaldi plans a 8.9 km dual two-lane carriageway, whereof 6.9 km in tunnel, to connect Tintoretto to Tuscolana in the south and east areas. The tunnel starts at Tintoretto interchange and runs beneath Grotta Perfetta, Ardeatina, Appia Antica, Appia Pignatelli, Appia Nuova, Acquedotti Park, Tuscolana and exits at grade in Cinecittí . The project will cost EUR390 million, whereof EUR190 million financed by Astaldi. Commissioning is scheduled for 2009. Visit www.astaldi.it 26/04.