Upgrade of the National Road Network

Project Description

Albania has an ambitious programme* of road upgrading. The programme will create a more comprehensive network, upgrade existing roads in very poor condition and provide interconnecting new links. All road users will benefit and economic growth will be boosted. Two WBIF IFIs, the EIB and EBRD, are supporting some parts of this initiative with loan finance. Most road improvements are part of the core network of agreed routes suitable for development as defined by the South East Europe Transport Observatory (SEETO).

This particular project covers: 

• rehabilitation and upgrading of the road between Fier and Tepelenë (approximately 70 km), on the North-South Albanian corridor;
• construction of a new two-lane motorway between Levan and Vlorë (approximately 24 km);
• construction of the Fier bypass;
• construction of the Tepelenë and Gjirokastër bypass.

The WBIF has provided technical assistance to the project implementation unit (PIU) during the preparation and implementation of investments financed by EIB and EBRD, including on-the-job training to project managers in the Albanian Roads Authority and preparation of future road investment projects. 

This project will contribute to enhanced road safety and reduced travel time in Southern Albania, as well as improved road access to business and leisure opportunities. Reduced vehicle operating costs will also prove economically advantageous.

*The WBIF has contributed towards the preparation and implementation of two other projects as part of this programme; please see PRJ-ALB-TRA-001 and PRJ-ALB-TRA-003.