The Road Infrastructure Agency has announced a public tender seeking a contractor to modernize a nearly 69-kilometer stretch of the I-9 highway connecting Burgas to the Malko Tarnovo border crossing. The project, estimated to cost BGN 3,450,000 (excluding VAT), will be funded by the republican budget.
Interested contractors have until January 16, 2025, to submit their proposals. The project, which has a 240-calendar-day completion deadline, involves developing an extended concept project with complete engineering and geological studies, and also a PUP project (parcel plan).
The modernization will encompass the section of the I-9 highway starting from the junction with road II-99 at the “Kraimorie” interchange (at kilometer 253) and extending to the Malko Tarnovo border crossing (at kilometer 322). “The project envisages the extension of the existing first-class road to the G20 gauge – a two-lane expressway in each direction, as well as bypasses of populated areas. The design speed is 90 km/h,” the agency stated.
“The implementation of the project will improve the operational characteristics of the existing road and adjacent facilities. The throughput capacity of the route will be substantially improved,” the agency added.”Simultaneously occurring, a high level of road safety will be ensured. Moving heavy traffic out of urban areas will reduce noise and air pollution.”
The modernization is expected to have a positive impact on the socio-economic conditions in the Burgas region. “The first-class road is a natural continuation of the future ‘Black Sea’ highway and the section will provide a modern transport connection with the road network of the Republic of Turkey, through the ‘Malko Tarnovo’ border crossing,” the agency explained.
The project is also seen as a catalyst for cross-border cooperation. “The implementation of the infrastructure projects will improve the accessibility and connectivity of the border areas, which will also stimulate the expansion of cross-border cooperation,” the agency concluded.
## Bulgarian Highway Project: An Interview wiht Infrastructure Expert
**World-Today-News.com:** The Road Infrastructure Agency recently announced a public tender for the modernization of a notable stretch of the I-9 highway. We’re joined today by [Insert Expert Name], a leading expert in infrastructure development and transport economics. Welcome, [Expert Name].
**Expert Name:** Thank you for having me.
**World-today-News.com:** Can you tell us more about this project and its significance?
**Expert Name:** This project involves modernizing a nearly 69-kilometer stretch of the I-9 highway, a crucial artery connecting Burgas, a major port city, to the Malko Tarnovo border crossing with Turkey. This is a vital trade route and improving its infrastructure will have significant economic and social benefits.
**World-Today-News.com:** What kind of improvements are planned?
**Expert Name:** The details of the modernization plan will be outlined in the tender documents, but we can expect significant upgrades to the road surface, potentially including widening lanes, adding safety features like guardrails and improved lighting, and potentially even restructuring certain sections to improve traffic flow.
**World-Today-News.com:** The project is estimated to cost BGN 3,450,000. Can you comment on the cost-effectiveness of this investment?
**Expert Name:** While the initial cost may seem significant, this project represents a long-term investment with significant returns. Modernized infrastructure leads to improved transit times, reduced transport costs, and increased safety for both commuters and goods transport. This, in turn, boosts economic activity, tourism, and regional development.
**World-Today-News.com:** The funding is reportedly coming from public sources. Is there any potential for private sector involvement in this project?
**Expert Name:** Public-private partnerships are becoming increasingly common in infrastructure projects. While this project is being funded publicly, there could be opportunities for private sector involvement in specific aspects, such as maintenance or future service expansions, through concession agreements or other mechanisms.
**World-Today-News.com:** what are the potential challenges associated with this project, and how can they be mitigated?
**Expert Name:** Like any major infrastructure project, this one will face challenges related to logistical planning, coordination with local communities, and ensuring minimal disruption to traffic during construction. Obvious interaction with stakeholders, careful planning, and efficient project management are essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure accomplished completion on time and within budget.
**World-Today-News.com:** Thank you for your valuable insights,[Expert Name]. This project promises significant benefits for Bulgaria’s transportation network and economy.
