The construction of Montenegro’s new highway, deemed the most important infrastructure project by the current government, is advancing with strong backing from the European Commission and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). Preparatory works are expected to begin by the end of the year, according to Minister of Transport Maja Vukićević, who spoke on RTCG’s “Okvir” program.
Vukićević revealed that the European Commission has already secured €100 million in grant funding, with an additional €50 million pending final approval. “According to the information I have, that will be finalized very soon,” she noted.
The EBRD is also involved and is expected to sign off on a favorable loan agreement in July.
The project’s estimated cost stands at €550 million (excluding VAT), although the final figure will be determined after a contractor is selected. The tender process has concluded, with 10 potential bidders expressing interest. “Having 10 companies submit bids shows this is a serious project,” Vukićević emphasized.
The technical evaluation of the bids is now underway, followed by the selection of the contractor and the initiation of preparatory work before year’s end. Vukićević underlined the openness of the tender process: “Montenegro must select a contractor based on the applications received, without discrimination based on the country of origin.”
On the topic of the Budva bypass, the minister highlighted its strategic importance in connecting Podgorica–Budva and Budva–Tivat routes. The 9.3 km road segment is part of the trans-European transport network and is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion on the coast. A contractor tender is anticipated later this year, with construction potentially starting in 2026.
Milan Ljiljanić, director of Monteput, confirmed that 10 bids have been received, including consortium offers. “We are now entering the technical evaluation phase, which we aim to complete in the coming weeks,” he said. After that, financial offers will be submitted, which will determine the final project cost. “Although the current estimate is €550 million, that may change.”
Ljiljanić added that the EBRD is actively involved in the process, providing a €200 million loan. “From the start, everything has been done according to EBRD rules. Monteput’s commission evaluates the bids and sends them to the EBRD for approval.” Financial proposals account for 80% of the total score, with technical proposals weighted at 20%.
Public consultation on the project is ongoing and will conclude by July 8, after which the loan agreement with the EBRD is expected to be finalized. The full tender process should be completed by the second half of the year.
Ljiljanić described the complex terrain of the route, which includes the Mateševo interchange and tunnel. “A large part of the route consists of engineering structures.” The alignment near Kralji has been modified, while it remains unchanged through Bare Kraljske. The highest point is Trešnjevik, descending toward Andrijevica and linking with the existing road to Berane. The longest tunnel will be approximately 4 km in length, with the final number of structures to be confirmed after the main design phase.
Radomir Vuksanović, Director of the Transport Administration, discussed progress on the 16 km Tivat–Jaz section, describing it as the busiest stretch in the country. “There is immense public pressure concerning this road, and we are working hard to minimize disruption for residents and tourists.”
Traffic in Montenegro increases by around 10% annually, he said, urging public understanding. “Before the tourist season, we paved from the airport to the Bigovo intersection. We hope to complete at least another kilometer by the end of June.”
Heavy traffic complicates roadwork during the season, but construction will ramp up afterwards. Vuksanović reminded drivers to respect traffic signage, as the site remains an active construction zone.
The project is valued at €54 million and is being implemented in cooperation with the Regional Waterworks. “So far, we haven’t received any extension requests from the contractor. The deadline remains January 2026,” he added.
Regarding Tivat’s traffic bottleneck, Vuksanović acknowledged the issue and mentioned a planned boulevard through the city. “The funds are allocated. Once that section opens, we hope it will relieve congestion,” he concluded.
