TIRANA, May 21 – The Municipality of Shkodër worked with the Albanian Development Fund and international and local experts. It prepared a package of transformative projects. These projects target mobility, daily life, economic development, and tourism in the region.
Meanwhile, Mayor Benet Beci presented the programme as “Gateway to the Alps”. He said parliament will review the loan for the project. In addition, he said the programme ranks among the most important strategic initiatives for Shkodër and northern Albania. At the same time, funding comes from the European Investment Bank and the Albanian government. The investment totals 100 million euros. As a result, it targets sustainable economic development, year-round tourism, and European urban standards.
Turning to infrastructure, the plan includes the transformation of Shkodër’s main boulevard from Democracy Square to the bypass roundabout into a green and multimodal corridor. In this context, pedestrians, bicycles, public transport, and urban greenery take priority. Moreover, the corridor connects the historic centre with the new park, the lake, and recreational areas. Meanwhile, the Shkodër–Velipoja road corridor follows modern standards. It bypasses populated areas. In addition, access to the coast improves. As a result, regional links toward Shëngjin and future connections with Ulqin strengthen.
At the same time, the programme introduces 17 electric buses for urban transport. In parallel, city routes expand under the plan. Furthermore, Shiroka, Zogaj, and Rozafa Castle gain new connections. In addition, an 80-kilometre bicycle network links Lake Shkodër, the Buna River, Velipoja, and routes toward the Alps and Lower Shkodër. Meanwhile, Shkodër’s museum system develops as an integrated cultural network. In this framework, the city functions as an “open museum”. The plan includes the City Museum, the Art Gallery, and a renovated historical museum at the Oso Kuka House. Furthermore, public parking investments improve traffic management and access in urban and tourist areas.
Finally, Beci said the projects represent a new generation of strategic investments for Shkodër. He said they will transform the city into a modern European centre. At the same time, he thanked the Albanian government, Prime Minister Edi Rama, the Albanian Development Fund, and international and local experts for their support.
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