The implementation has begun of one of the major infrastructure projects on the Road Corridor VIII – the construction of the motorway section Bukojchani (Dolno Strogomishte)-Kichevo, with a total length of about 11.5 kilometers.

This marks the start of construction of a new, modern and safe motorway section that will improve regional connectivity and become an important part of the transport infrastructure of Corridor VIII.

“Today we are beginning to build a road that will connect the whole region with new opportunities. This is not just a construction of another 11.5 km of motorway. This is an investment in better connectivity, greater safety and faster movement of people and goods. With the commencement of works on the Bukojchani -Kichevo section, Corridor VIII is gaining a new, tangible and visible infrastructure perspective. Today we are not just talking about plans – today we are starting to build,” said Koce Trajanovski, Director of the Public Enterprise for State Roads.

He added that the project is divided into two subsections: Dolno Strogomishte-Crvivci, approximately 4.98 kilometers long, and Crvivci-Kichevo, with a length of about 6.53 kilometers.

“The project envisages building of a modern motorway with two traffic lanes in each direction, stop lanes and a design speed of 110 kilometers per hour. The section will also include the construction of 5 bridges, 2 viaducts, 4 overpasses, 9 underpasses and 6 box culverts, as well as the 370 meters long Kolibari tunnel. The construction of the Strogomiste and Kichevo North intersections is also planned. Corridor VIII is no longer just a line on a map, it is becoming a reality on the ground, and today we are taking the next important step towards its full realization,” Trajanovski said in his address at the laying of the cornerstone together with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Macedonia, Mr. Mickoski and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Nikoloski.

The total contract value of the project amounts to EUR 219.51 million and the construction period is 48 months.

The project is financed by loan and grant funds through the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The contractor of the works is the consortium Strabag S.R.L. (Romania) and Duna Asphalt ZRT (Hungary).

With this project, we are investing in infrastructure that is intended to last for decades. The new motorway will provide better travel conditions, greater safety and better connectivity for citizens, while also strengthening the region’s transport links and economic integration.

The construction of the Bukojchani-Kichevo section is part of a broader vision for modern road infrastructure and better connectivity of North Macedonia with the region and European transport corridors.