Skopje to launch BRT, reopen Ljubljanska bridge and build Limak underpass

Skopje city officials announced a package of major transport works that includes the rapid bus transit (BRT) corridor, reopening the Ljubljanska bridge and construction of an underpass by the Limak complex. Mayor Orce Gjorgjievski told the public that the BRT project is in the final stage of approval with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and that a design-and-build tender will be published in the coming days.

Gjorgjievski said the city has already submitted the required documentation to the bank and expects an official reply before the end of the week, after which the public procurement process will be launched. "We are working in full coordination and connectivity with the EBRD, and the tender procedure will be carried out in accordance with European regulations. I expect that during the next few days the tender procedure will be announced," he said.

Timetables, environment and immediate works

City planners emphasise that the BRT alignment will preserve the existing central green medians along the boulevards, combining modernisation of public transport with environmental protection. If the tendering and contractor selection proceed on the expected schedule, groundwork and the ceremonial laying of a foundation stone could begin in late spring of next year.

Alongside the BRT, the city confirmed plans to put the Ljubljanska bridge back into service to create a direct traffic link between Ljubljanska Street and Skupi Street. "This project was stalled for too long. Our goal is to reactivate it and put it into operation, because the Ljubljanska bridge will mean a new and better traffic connection for the citizens of Skopje," Gjorgjievski said, describing the link as an important addition to the urban road network that will improve access between Karpoš and the northern and western parts of the city, and ease travel to Bardovci and Zlokučani.

The underpass near the Limak complex is presented by the municipality as a strategic measure to reduce traffic congestion. According to traffic analyses and feasibility studies cited by the city, the underpass is expected to cut congestion by at least 33 percent. The overall project for Boulevard Macedonia and the underground carriageway advanced from a single-phase plan to a full implementation after fiscal stabilisation allowed the city to reallocate savings: the initial estimate of MKD 1.1 billion was reduced, and the contractor was awarded the job for MKD 750 million including VAT.

Work on the Kisela Voda-to-tunnel section has already started, with a completion deadline set for the end of next year. This phase includes two new roundabouts—one adjacent to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVR), linking Ognjan Prica and Jordan Mijalkov streets, and another near the Ramstor area—and a new pumping station at the MVR site to finally tackle recurring flooding after heavy rain. Jordan Mijalkov Street will be converted to two-way traffic during construction; an additional tunnel exit will be located by the Nova Makedonija area and will be connected to the surrounding network with a new roundabout and an expanded lane toward the Flower Market and the Catholic Church. The municipality says expropriations in Kisela Voda are nearly complete and that alternatives will be arranged for any displaced tenants near the Flower Market.

Photo: press material from the event