In January 2007, the governorate of Alexandria requested the Alex Med center to conduct a preliminary study for the improvement and development of the road along the northern bank of the Mahmoudieh Canal. The overall objective was to transform this road into a new route for traffic travelling along the east-west axis of the city, thereby decreasing traffic density within Alexandria. This preliminary study focused on the stretch of road between Antoniadis Gardens and Namoos Bridge. The study included a survey of land use, existing problems and an analysis of the condition of the road. Stretches of the road which could be widened and areas which should be expropriated were identified. The outcome of the study, including recommendations and proposals, was submitted in a report to the governorate of Alexandria.