During a developmental tour in Meru, President William Ruto announced the construction of a Ksh3 billion bypass highway in Meru town to alleviate traffic congestion and prepare Meru to become Kenya's sixth city. Additionally, Ruto revealed that reconstruction of the dangerous Nithi Bridge, costing Ksh7 billion, will commence in February 2026 to enhance road safety.

• The Meru bypass will be the first outside Nairobi, making Meru the second urban center in Kenya to have such a project.
• President William Ruto made these announcements on Thursday, January 22 (bypass) and confirmed the bridge reconstruction for February 2026.
• The Nithi Bridge reconstruction, costing Ksh7 billion, aims for a straight design to replace the current curved structure, addressing a long-standing black spot.