On 26 June 2026, the official ceremony marking the start of construction of the Mateševo–Andrijevica section of the Bar–Boljare Motorway took place in Mateševo, launching one of the most important infrastructure projects currently underway in Montenegro. The 23-km section represents an investment of approximately €694 million and is expected to significantly improve connectivity between central and northern Montenegro.
The event brought together senior representatives of the Montenegrin Government, President Jakov Milatović, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, representatives of the European Union, the Ambassador of China to Montenegro H.E. Chen Xiufeng, leaders of the PowerChina-led consortium, and Monteput officials.
The project will be delivered by the consortium POWERCHINA – STECOL – PCCD, with construction scheduled over a five-year period, including approximately 14 months for detailed design and preparatory activities followed by 46 months of construction works. Main construction activities are expected to commence in mid-2027 following the completion of the design phase and preparatory works.
IRD Engineering is proud to be entrusted with the supervision of the Detailed Design and Construction Works under the FIDIC Yellow Book framework, ensuring compliance with international standards, quality requirements, contractual obligations, and best engineering practices throughout the project lifecycle.
The project benefits from a robust financing structure, including a €150 million European Union grant—the largest single EU grant ever awarded to Montenegro—and a €200 million EBRD loan, complemented by national funding. The project will also promote European standards in environmental protection, road safety, impact assessment, and fair market competition.
Once completed, the new motorway section will reduce travel time between Podgorica and Andrijevica to less than 40 minutes, strengthening regional integration and supporting the long-term economic development of northern Montenegro.
We are honoured to contribute to the successful delivery of this landmark project and look forward to working closely with all stakeholders throughout the design and construction phases.