TIRANA, April 14 – The Shiroka–Zogaj road will open in mid-May. Authorities link the project to tourism growth and regional connectivity in northern Albania. The road also strengthens cross-border access with Montenegro.

Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu inspected the works on site. Infrastructure Minister Enea Karakaçi and Mayor Benet Beci joined the visit. Officials confirmed that construction on the 6.5-kilometre axis reaches its final phase.

The Albanian Development Fund reports external financing for the project. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development supports the investment program. The project also connects to a wider tourism plan. Germany’s KfW development bank supports that masterplan. It links Shiroka, Zogaj, and nearby areas with Montenegro’s tourism network.

Montenegro has already completed its connecting road section. This creates a continuous cross-border route. Authorities plan a second phase in Zogaj village. The plan targets tourism development in the area.

Koçiu says the road improves mobility for citizens. She also expects stronger tourism flows during the summer season. Authorities continue work on a joint border crossing point. The facility should operate during peak tourist months. It will offer shared border services.

Karakaçi says the project extends beyond road construction. He describes it as part of a wider transport network. The works include water systems and sewage infrastructure. They also include a 20 kV energy grid.

He adds that Shkodra hosts several parallel investments. These include Buna River rehabilitation and Velipoja development. Urban projects also continue in the city. They include the entrance area, western park, castle restoration, and a museum district.

Municipal data show about 500,000 annual visitors. Average stays last two nights. Authorities expect new infrastructure to increase arrivals. They also expect higher tourism spending.

/a.p./