The road is a key element of the Maputo Corridor, a seven-billion dollar development initiative, which will eventually include a rail link, an upgrading of Maputo's harbour, factories, shops and hotels.

BBC: News | Africa | South Africa and Mozambique launch road project

Landmark status there "guided development on a north-south corridor, while keeping the core as a pedestrian experience, " he said.

WSJ: Mayor of Preservation

Its chemical company is located out west of the city near Katy, while the Exxon Development Company is situated in a bleak commercial corridor near the Intercontinental Airport.

FORBES: A Bird's Eye View Of Exxon's Giant New Houston Complex