Tender announced for conceptual design of the highway section from Virpazar to Stari Bar

Monteput announced a public call on 24 December 2024 for the preparation of the concept design for the Bar-Boljare Highway, specifically the Podgorica-Bar section, sub-section Virpazar-Stari Bar. The planned length of this section is approximately 26 kilometers, with an estimated project value of €2,500,000. The timeframe for completing the concept design is 12 months from the date of contract signing.

This section is a critical infrastructure project designed to enhance connectivity between Montenegro's coastal and central regions, support the growth of tourism and the economy, and improve traffic efficiency and safety in the area.

The Virpazar–Stari Bar section involves addressing significant technical challenges and opportunities, including traversing complex terrain, integrating with the existing road network, and coordinating with infrastructure such as the Sozina Tunnel. The project aims to develop optimal route solutions that meet the highest standards, with particular attention to preserving the area's natural and cultural assets.

The highway on this section will be designed for a speed of 100 km/h, featuring: four traffic lanes, each 3.5 meters wide; emergency lanes, each 2.5 meters wide; a central median strip with a minimum width of 3 meters. Planned interchanges at key locations will improve accessibility and connectivity, including:

• Virpazar Interchange – connecting to the M-2 main road.
• Sozina Interchange – connecting to the M-1.1 main road.
• Bar Zone Interchange – providing access to the city of Bar and its port.
• Stari Bar Zone Interchange – connecting to the local road network and surrounding areas.

Special emphasis will be placed on connecting this section with key transportation corridors, including the Adriatic-Ionian Highway, while improving access to the region's tourist and industrial hubs. The construction of this section will alleviate congestion on existing roads, particularly during the summer tourist season, and facilitate smoother traffic flow.

The project represents a significant step forward in modernizing Montenegro's transport infrastructure and integrating it into international transportation networks.