Croatia's mega tunnel near Split: traffic problems will soon be a thing of the past!

Croatia's mega tunnel near Split: traffic problems will soon be a thing of the past!

Split's infrastructure is currently experiencing a transformative phase, marked by significant construction works with an immediate focus on transport. Croatia's new four-lane expressway is taking shape, particularly with the successful breakthrough of the right tube of the Gladnjici Tunnel. This tunnel, which is 330 meters long, was created by blasting in fifth category rock. Construction began on December 17, 2024 and the project is being carried out by the Strabag company, entrusted with a contract worth 32.7 million euros, excluding VAT. Completion is planned within 24 months and could be completed as early as 2027, reports Cosmo.

There are currently around 70 workers and 15 technical employees working on the construction site. In addition to the tunnel work, earthworks, excavation and dam work are also being carried out, and progress is also being made on reinforced concrete work on various overpasses. The tunnel itself is part of a larger transport project that includes the construction of a 2.5-kilometer road between Mravince and TTTS and aims to reduce chronic traffic congestion in the Split area.

Planned infrastructure measures

The Gladnjici Tunnel is part of a comprehensive infrastructure expansion, which also includes the completion of two overpasses and a junction at the Karepovac landfill. Mayor of Split Tomislav Šuta, during a recent tour of the construction site, emphasized the importance of these projects for the future of the city and announced that the entire line from Mravince to TTTS will be operational by 2027. These infrastructure projects are seen as a crucial step in addressing Split's long-standing traffic problems, such as Croatia Week reported.

The final work will also include numerous reconstructions and new buildings, including the modernization of road connections and bridges, which promise to significantly improve the quality of life in the region. In particular, the Karepovac crossing will play a concentrated role in waste management by creating an efficient route for trucks.

The regional government is also planning to invest 500 million euros in the infrastructure of Split and the surrounding area. These significant investments and the associated construction work are intended not only to reduce traffic congestion, but also to provide new economic stimulus.