In another step towards modernizing local infrastructure, the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works (MRDPW) is undertaking a large-scale investment campaign. Minister Ivan Ivanov officially announced the signing of 113 new agreements with representatives of 23 municipal administrations, with a total value of an impressive 205 million leva.
In his statement, the head of the department emphasized the principled position of impartiality: "It doesn't matter to us the political affiliation of local governors. We work equally intensively with representatives from the entire political spectrum". The signed contracts cover various infrastructure projects in municipalities such as Pleven, Ruse, Smolyan, Sofia Municipality, and others.
Among the main challenges the ministry is addressing is the critical water supply situation. Ivanov made an explicit appeal to mayors to prioritize water network renovation projects, especially in the context of the upcoming summer months with a high risk of drought.
The financial framework of the initiative includes phased payment of submitted applications with a total value of 805 million leva. The MRDPW will continue payments until October, spending the available limit of 750 million leva. Subsequently, the process will be taken over by the Bulgarian Development Bank with an additional resource of 900 million leva.
The ministry is also working in parallel on large-scale infrastructure projects to long-term address water supply challenges. Pre-project studies are currently being conducted, with the aim of potentially including them in the 2026 budget after consultations with the Ministry of Finance.
"While the current government is in power, the investment process will be continuous," Ivan Ivanov was categorical. He assured that the department will be able to catch up on delayed projects and payments, with the main obstacle at the moment being the volume of documentation and potential administrative oversights.
The key message of the regional minister is that despite the challenges, the MRDPW continues to work purposefully to improve local infrastructure and quality of life in Bulgarian municipalities.