Montenegro has initiated a significant step in road development with the prequalification process for the 10.5 km Smokovac–Tološi motorway section. This new route is designed to feature four traffic lanes, emergency lanes, and complex structures, including bridges and a twin-tube tunnel.
The project is technically demanding, as approximately 20% of the total alignment will consist of bridge and tunnel structures. This complexity highlights the challenges beyond just the length of the motorway.
This section is crucial for alleviating congestion in one of the busiest transport areas surrounding Podgorica. With increasing traffic volumes, enhancing connections between the existing motorway, the capital, and the coastal network is essential for both domestic transportation and freight movement.
The tender expands Montenegro’s infrastructure market beyond the Mateševo–Andrijevica section. The simultaneous tendering and construction of multiple motorway packages create a robust demand pipeline for contractors, designers, geotechnical specialists, tunnel equipment providers, bridge systems, and project management firms.
This development may enhance opportunities for domestic subcontractors while simultaneously intensifying competition for skilled labor in the region. The urban proximity of the project adds layers of complexity regarding traffic management, land acquisition, utilities, and environmental considerations.
The commercial potential is substantial due to these specialized technical requirements associated with the project. Additionally, this tender reflects Montenegro’s strategy to develop its motorway system as an interconnected network rather than viewing Bar–Boljare as an isolated corridor.
Improving integration around Podgorica could enhance the economic returns from previously constructed motorway sections by increasing their usage and reducing bottlenecks on connecting roads. Consequently, the Smokovac–Tološi package is poised to become a key player in Montenegro’s infrastructure procurement landscape.
