TA for Project Implementation Roads Sector

Albania has implemented an ambitious programme of road upgrading that created a more comprehensive network, upgraded existing roads in very poor condition and provided new interconnecting links. The programme particularly covered:

• 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.

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

Apart from building the capacity of the Albanian Roads Authority through technical assistance, these improvements in the road sector have contributed to plans to link Albania with Montenegro to the north and Greece to the south. Along with a positive impact on the economic development of Southern Albania, a beneficial social impact comes from enhanced road safety, reduced travel time, and improved access to business and leisure opportunities.