World Bank approves project to support safer and more resilient transport connectivity in Bosnia and Herzegovina

(Patria) - The Executive Board of the World Bank today approved a loan of 70 million euros (80.97 million US dollars) for Bosnia and Herzegovina, aimed at improving transport connectivity and modernising road infrastructure, as key drivers of employment and economic growth.

The project is accompanied by a European Union grant of 8.5 million euros (9.99 million US dollars) through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), confirming strong cooperation among international partners.

The Road Asset Management Improvement Project will address key needs of the road network in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH). Planned investments include the rehabilitation or upgrade of approximately 150 kilometres of priority main roads, in line with the highest safety and resilience standards. Traffic safety will also be improved through the reconstruction of the Mostar Sjever intersection, one of the most dangerous traffic points in the country, and through funding for traffic calming measures, clearer signage, and safer pedestrian crossings in around 20 school zones. Additionally, the project will support the establishment of a traffic safety database.

"We are pleased to support Bosnia and Herzegovina's efforts to improve its road infrastructure in a way that enhances safety, resilience, and connectivity," said Christopher Sheldon, Head of the World Bank Office for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro.

"Better roads create new opportunities, connecting people to jobs, markets, and services, and helping the country progress towards European Union standards."

In addition to physical works, the project will strengthen road network planning and management to ensure adequate infrastructure maintenance and more efficient use of public funds in the long term. The project also includes a Contingent Emergency Response Component, which allows for the rapid reallocation of funds to support the road sector in the event of an appropriate emergency.

The improvement of these priority roads, many of which are key daily traffic routes, will enhance everyday mobility and expand economic opportunities across the Federation of BiH. Rural areas – where poverty rates are higher and the population largely depends on agriculture – will particularly benefit from better access to jobs, services, and trade.