Major road projects launched on Korčula and Pelješac

(Photo: Dubrovačko-neretvanska županija)

Deputy Croatian Prime Minister and Minister of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, Oleg Butković, visited Dubrovnik-Neretva County on Tuesday, where he marked the start of two major transport infrastructure projects on Korčula and Pelješac.

The visit began on Korčula, where Minister Butković, joined by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Construction, Spatial Planning and State Assets Branko Bačić, and President of Hrvatske Ceste (Croatian Roads) Ivica Budimir, officially introduced the contractor for the Žrnovo–DC118 connecting road project.

The €3.87 million project (excluding VAT) includes the construction of a 1.9-kilometre road, designed to improve traffic flow, enhance connectivity on the island, and increase road safety for residents and visitors alike.

Following Korčula, Minister Butković travelled to Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula, where he attended the signing ceremony for the Orebić Bypass (Phase I).

(Photo: Dubrovačko-neretvanska županija)

The €39.5 million project (excluding VAT) will deliver a 6.6-kilometre bypass road, easing traffic through the town centre, improving safety for locals and tourists, and boosting the region’s long-term development.

“It’s wonderful to be here for such an occasion,” said Minister Butković. “Just six months ago we signed the funding agreement for the new Perna port, and today we’re launching another long-awaited project, the Orebić bypass.

These are moments that will be remembered, as we are a privileged generation witnessing the realisation of major infrastructure projects.”

Butković noted that after the Pelješac Bridge, the Orebić bypass represents one of the most important transport investments in southern Croatia. He added that within a ten-kilometre radius around Orebić and Perna, around €150 million is being invested in new ports, access roads, and other infrastructure.

(Photo: Dubrovačko-neretvanska županija)

“The road and port renaissance taking place in Croatia is most visible here, in Pelješac and Korčula. From the new passenger terminal in Vela Luka, to the Polačište port, the Orebić bypass, and the Perna port – these are transformative projects changing the face of southern Croatia,” Butković concluded.

Minister Bačić emphasised the significance of signing the contract in the Orebić Maritime Museum, calling it “a symbol of Pelješac’s strength and pride.”

“Six months ago, we signed the agreement for the Perna port, and now for the Orebić bypass – investments worth nearly €50 million with VAT. Together with the Pelješac Bridge, these projects demonstrate the Government’s commitment to developing southern Croatia,” Bačić said.

He added that diverting transit traffic away from the town centre will allow Orebić to pursue new urban development opportunities.

(Photo: Dubrovačko-neretvanska županija)

“When we remove congestion from the centre, we create space for new investments, promenades and amenities that will make Orebić even more appealing. Strong transport links are the foundation of growth, and this project directly contributes to that,” he said.

County Prefect Blaž Pezo highlighted that the bypass marks the start of a new phase of economic and transport development for the region.

“This project is the result of years of collaboration between the County, the Government and Croatian Roads. It offers a modern solution to the long-standing traffic problems in Orebić and ensures safer, smoother travel,” said Pezo, adding that the project is a logical continuation of the connectivity achieved with the Pelješac Bridge.

Orebić Mayor Tomislav Ančić said the long-awaited project will redefine Orebić’s development prospects.

“From the beginning, the position of the Ministry and the County was clear – the Perna port and the Orebić bypass are one joint project. One cannot exist without the other,” said Ančić, stressing the project’s importance for balanced and sustainable local growth.

Finally, Ivica Budimir, President of Croatian Roads, thanked the Government and local partners for their support and noted that work on both islands is progressing rapidly.

“Earlier today we introduced the contractor on Korčula, where construction of a nearly two-kilometre road worth €4 million is beginning. Now, in Orebić, we are launching a €49 million investment. It’s a technically demanding project due to the terrain, but we have an experienced contractor, and work will start immediately once the building permit is issued,” Budimir said.

(Photo: Dubrovačko-neretvanska županija)

He added that the bypass will connect with the future Perna port and extend towards Brijesta, with plans already under way for the first section between Brijesta and Janjina.

“All these projects form part of one strategy – to ensure Pelješac and Korčula have modern, safe and efficient transport infrastructure,” Budimir concluded.