The IPA 2011 programme includes 17 million EUR for the construction of the Vlora bypass. The project is implemented via a Contribution Agreement signed with EBRD. In addition to the EU, EBRD and EIB are contributing a maximum of 18 million EUR each to this project.

Total project costs are estimated at 53 million EUR. The Albanian Roads Authority manages the implementation of works contracts according to the EBRD guidelines.

In parallel, a supervision contract has been signed and managed by the EU for an amount of 3.1 million EUR under IPA 2011 and IPA 2016 funding.

The bypass around the city of Vlore is a vital connection in south-western Albania. It will improve road transport conditions in Vlore town and in surrounding areas, including on the coastal road along Vlore Bay. This road segment will bring benefits to tourism, stimulate the private sector, facilitate trade, promote regional and national growth as well as contribute to economic and social cohesion. The bypass is 29 km long and includes five bridges, two underpasses and 15 roundabouts and T-shaped intersections. The project has been one of the Albanian Government’s transport priorities.

 

As of 30 June 2022, the main works of the bypass have been completed, however, some remaining works are pending. Full asphalt layering has been placed on the first 10 km, one of the three planned layers for the second 10 km, and two of three layers for the last 9 km.



All the structures have been completed, as well as most connections (roundabouts, junctions), safety measures, markings, and signs.



The road was opened for traffic on 7 July 2022 to address increased summer traffic and the congestion in Vlore town. The remaining works will be executed after the summer season of 2022 and by means of careful scheduling, road safety measures, and traffic management plans, in coordination with the law enforcement authorities.



The 29-kilometre road segment, opened to traffic on 7 July, will shorten the travelling time towards the Albanian Riviera, increase road safety, reduce air pollution, and bring new opportunities for Albanian businesses.



On 14 July 2022, the EU Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi and the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, inspected the site, accompanied by the representatives of EUD, EBRD and EIB in Albania.