TIRANA, May 21/ATA/ Shkodra Municipality and the Albanian Development Fund, with input from top experts, have launched a bold package of urban projects. This initiative will revitalize regional tourism, strengthen the local economy, and transform everyday mobility and living.
Parliament is expected to approve a loan today for the ‘Gateway to the Alps’ project, a major strategic initiative aimed at transforming Shkodra and northern Albania. Mayor Benet Beci announced the financing, which is backed by the Albanian Government and the European Investment Bank.
A 100-million-euro regional development program will elevate Shkodra into a year-round tourist destination meeting European standards. Key projects include transforming the city’s central boulevard into a green multimodal corridor. This will link the historic city center to the lake and recreational areas, creating an accessible, eco-friendly route for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit.
Other key projects outlined by Beci include completing the Shkodra-Velipoja road corridor. This upgraded, modern route will bypass residential areas to provide safer, faster coastal access while strengthening regional connections to Shëngjin and, eventually, Ulcinj. Additionally, the city will modernize its transit system with 17 electric buses. This expansion will extend city lines and introduce dedicated routes to Shiroka, Zogaj, and Rozafa Castle, offering a sustainable alternative to private vehicles.
Building an 80km cycle route connecting Lake Shkodra, the Buna River, and Velipoja to mountain and regional pathways, creating a major new ecotourism product. This is paired with public parking investments to improve city-wide traffic management and accessibility. /e.i/j.p/p.s./
