Traffic Disrupted on Struma Motorway Near Simitli Due to Road Repairs

Traffic on Road II Simitli – Kresna, between kilometer markers 375 and 385, is being phased into a single lane due to partial repair works on the asphalt surface. The Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) announced the restrictions, which are in effect until February 26, 2026, to enhance traffic safety. Road Infrastructure Agency

Repair Work Causes Significant Delays

The RIA is conducting repairs in sections during daylight hours, with traffic being regulated by signalers. However, the partial closure has already led to substantial traffic congestion, with queues reportedly stretching back to Blagoevgrad. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution and at an appropriate speed.

Local Councilor Criticizes Traffic Management

Ivelin Terziyski, a municipal councilor in Sandanski, voiced strong dissatisfaction with the organization of traffic flow due to the repairs. He reported being stuck in a traffic jam for nearly two hours and criticized the lack of coordination, suggesting better planning was needed for one of the country’s busiest roads. Terziyski also noted a perceived lack of commitment from some workers and a lack of widespread media notification prior to the roadwork.

Struma Motorway Completion Efforts

These repairs occur as Bulgaria continues work on completing the Struma Motorway, a crucial transport corridor connecting Sofia to Kulata. A key section of the motorway, the Kresna – Krupnik section (23.6 km long), is currently under procurement for design and construction. Road Infrastructure Agency This section will bypass the Kresna Gorge on a new alignment, incorporating seven tunnels and 21 viaducts.

a separate project aims to divert transit traffic from Simitli, with 13 companies participating in a market study for the design and construction of a 2.7 km section. Economic.bg The estimated cost for this project ranges from BGN 100.5 to 190.5 million (excluding VAT).

Roadmap for Completion

The Council of Ministers approved a roadmap in February 2025 for completing the Struma Motorway by 2031. BNR News The plan includes an open tender for preliminary design of the Simitli-Kresna section, with the route being constructed outside the Kresna Gorge. The 14-kilometer section is expected to be completed by June 2031, after which the E-79 road through the gorge will become a local roadway.

A public procurement procedure is also underway for a conceptual design to provide an alternative route for the Struma motorway between Simitli and Kresna, bypassing the Kresna Gorge. BurgasMedia The estimated value of this contract is 2.5 million BGN (excluding VAT).