The construction of the Budva bypass is a key infrastructure project aimed at resolving the traffic congestion on the Montenegrin coast during the summer tourist season. The project includes 9.3 kilometers of road, two tunnels, eight bridges, and two traffic loops, funded through the capital budget and supported by European institutions. The tender for the contractor is expected by the end of the year, with Monteput overseeing the implementation. The project will relieve traffic in the center of Budva, shorten travel times, and improve the tourist offer. In addition to the bypass, works on the Tivat–Jaz boulevard are ongoing and progressing according to plan despite seasonal traffic jams. There is also an active tender for the concession of Montenegro’s airports, currently in the evaluation phase, with no official interest from Serbia or Albania. This infrastructure endeavor is considered strategically important for the region’s development.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning reports emphasize the social benefits of the Budva bypass project, highlighting its potential to improve the quality of life for local residents by reducing traffic congestion and pollution. They stress the importance of transparent public investment and the role of European support in ensuring fair and sustainable development. Concerns about environmental impact and the inclusion of local communities in decision-making are also noted.
Center: Center-leaning coverage focuses on the technical and economic aspects of the Budva bypass project, presenting it as a necessary infrastructure development to support tourism and regional growth. The reports highlight the collaboration with European financial institutions and the expected improvements in traffic flow and safety. The tender process and project timelines are presented factually, with an emphasis on transparency and efficiency.
Right: Right-leaning narratives tend to emphasize the strategic importance of the project for national development and economic competitiveness. They highlight the government’s role in pushing forward key infrastructure projects despite challenges and stress the need for strong state involvement. The lack of foreign interest in airport concessions is sometimes framed as a positive sign of national control and sovereignty over critical assets.
