Sofia to seek €367 million in loans for public transport and roads

Sofia Municipality will seek up to €367 million in loans to modernise public transport and upgrade key streets and boulevards, following a decision by the Sofia Municipal Council today.

The plans include the purchase of up to 200 buses, 75 trolleybuses, 50 electric buses and 20 trams.

Major road projects are also planned across the capital, including work on Pencho Slaveykov Boulevard, the Eastern Tangent, the extension of Iliantsi Boulevard, sections of Rozhen Boulevard, as well as James Bourchier, St Kliment Ohridski, Copenhagen and Henrik Ibsen boulevards. The tram tracks along Hristo Botev Boulevard will also be upgraded, while Lomsko Shose will be widened, BNR Radio Sofia reported.

Around €183 million of the financing is expected to come from the European Investment Bank, while a lender will be selected through a separate procedure for the remaining amount.

According to Sofia Mayor Vasil Terziev, the loan should ensure that the projects are completed regardless of future changes in the city administration.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova