Montenegro plans to build 480 kilometers motorways and expressways. Construction begins appointed by 2026. This infrastructure project will be the largest in the history of the country and will significantly improve transport links between regions. The development of the road network is designed not only to improve the convenience of travel for citizens, but also to stimulate economic growth.
Today, Montenegro's road infrastructure needs in a major update. Many highways are outdated and do not meet modern standards. The new project will eliminate existing problems, speed up traffic flows and attract additional investment.
What roads are planned to be built?
Construction of 480 kilometers of roads in Montenegro includes:
- National highways – will connect the country’s largest cities.
- Expressways – will reduce the load on existing roads.
- Reconstruction of old areas – will improve the quality of the coating and safety.
The new project is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the capital Podgorica and the coastal resorts. This is especially important for the tourism industry, which is key to the country's economy.
Sources of financing
Financing for road construction will be provided by:
- State budget of Montenegro.
- Investments from international companies.
- Loans from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
At the same time, the government strives for transparency at all stages of financing in order to avoid corruption and cost overruns.
Project problems and risks
Despite ambitious plans, the project faces a number of challenges:
- High costs – the implementation of such a large-scale project will require significant financial investments.
- Construction time – Previous projects in Montenegro were often delayed due to bureaucratic procedures.
- Quality control – it is necessary to strictly monitor compliance with standards during road construction.
However, the government is confident that the project will be implemented within the established time frame, since the development of road infrastructure is one of the country's key priorities.
How will road construction affect Montenegro?
The implementation of the project will lead to the following positive changes:
- Transport accessibility for citizens will improve.
- The development of business and tourism will become more active.
- The number of road accidents will decrease.
- New jobs will be created in the construction industry.
Construction is expected to begin in 2025, and the first road sections will be commissioned by 2026.
Environmental aspects of the project
Special attention will be paid to environmental standards when constructing new highways. Montenegro is famous for its natural beauty, and the authorities promise to minimize environmental damage when building roads. It is planned:
- Using modern technologies to reduce CO₂ emissions.
- Landscaping of areas along roads to compensate for environmental damage.
- Creating safe crossings for wild animals in areas adjacent to nature reserves.
The Montenegrin government assures that infrastructure development will not harm the country's unique ecosystem.
Opinion of experts and residents
Transport experts say that the construction of new roads in Montenegro is long overdue. This will help solve traffic jams, improve logistics and increase the country's investment attractiveness. However, opinions are divided among local residents.
Some, including the opposition, fear that construction could be delayed and some of the funds could be spent inappropriately. At the same time, many support the project, seeing it as an opportunity to improve the quality of life and develop business.
"It is difficult to say whether everything will be completed in the next five to seven years, but it is certain that the conditions will be created for the start of all these projects in the near future. Several conceptual projects have already been implemented. Most of them will be completed in 2025, so that all new projects can begin to be built in 2026," says Minister of Transport Maja Vukicevic.
Despite the government's commitment and will to complete everything within the set time frame, there are factors that may delay the process.
Minister Vukicevic explains that the implementation of projects requires a complex process – from spatial planning and technical administration to the selection of the designer, contractor and acceptance committee. At each stage, obstacles may arise, which do not always depend on the state’s willingness to finance the project. Delays are often associated with complaints and disputes during tender procedures.
Therefore, even if there are financial resources and the state’s desire to invest, bureaucratic and procedural difficulties can significantly slow down the implementation of projects.
Conclusion
Montenegro is betting on infrastructure development, and if the project is successfully implemented, it will be an important step towards the country's economic growth. New roads will increase safety on the highways, improve communication between regions and make the country even more attractive to tourists and investors.
