Regional Development: Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects and Restoration of Cultural Sites

During an official statement to local media, Regional Minister Ivan Ivanov revealed details about a series of significant national infrastructure and cultural initiatives. Among the main highlights was the progress in road infrastructure, with special attention given to the route between Mezdra and Botevgrad, whose construction is currently entering its final phase.

The minister emphasized that despite challenges related to political instability and frequent changes in management teams, the undertaken commitments are being implemented consistently. The state acceptance commission is expected to provide a final assessment of the completed construction activities, with a positive opinion anticipated.

Among the priority projects is alleviating traffic on busy routes. Specific attention was paid to the section near Kresna, where due to Bulgaria's entry into the Schengen area, the vehicle flow has increased from 800 to 1,600 vehicles daily. As a permanent solution, Minister Ivanov pointed to the future construction of the Struma Highway.

In the short term, temporary organizational measures have been planned, developed jointly with local authorities, the road agency, and the Ministry of Interior. The focus is on traveler safety, with plans to secure 36 sections with a high concentration of traffic accidents by August.

Among the specific infrastructure projects, the minister noted the upcoming opening of the Praveshki Hanove and Topli Dol tunnels on the Hemus Highway on July 18, as well as the planned traffic relief on routes to Pleven, Ruse, and the Vidin Danube Bridge.

Another significant highlight was the official launch of a project for energy renovation of the natural science museum in the village of Cherni Osam. The project is worth over 1 million leva, with nearly 654,000 leva in grant funding from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.

The Mayor of Troyan, Donka Mihaylova, added that the museum is the most visited cultural institution in the municipality, with over 40,000 visitors annually. Minister Ivanov expressed confidence that the renovation will attract more visitors and reduce operating costs.

Additionally, plans were shared for future investments, including a pre-project study for the Cherni Osam dam and a potential renovation of the water supply system in the region during the next budget year.

The minister's overall message was focused on the consistent implementation of infrastructure projects that will improve quality of life and create better connectivity between different regions of the country.