Moldovan Infrastructure Ministry completes preparations for new batch Europe is Close projects: 61 mayors already signed funding contracts

The Infrastructure and Regional Development Ministry (MIDR) has announced the completion of preparations for implementing the new batch of 133 projects approved through the Europe is Close program, aimed at modernizing roads and local infrastructure in Moldova.

So far, 61 mayors have signed the funding contracts at the National Office for Regional and Local Development (ONDRL). The work will start immediately after the public procurement procedures and the designation of contractors, with an estimated completion of most projects by July 1, 2026, depending on the complexity of each object.

‘’Parallel to signing the contracts, ONDRL has organized a methodological training session for all 133 beneficiaries of the Program's third phase. The event provided informational support to municipalities for managing the entire implementation process, from signing contracts and public procurement to completing the works. During the session, ONDRL specialists explained the contractual conditions and public procurement procedures, the technical and financial documentation and payments’ management, necessary measures to ensure the sustainability of investments,’’ MIDR said.

The institution's leadership emphasized the importance of strictly observing the legal framework and established stages, so that each project is implemented correctly, transparently and efficiently.

The 133 projects are added to the 220 projects launched in last July, reaching 353 projects in implementation or preparation out of a total of 579 selected for funding.

 

The cumulative impact of these projects will be significant: 41 km of district and municipal roads constructed or rehabilitated; 294 km of communal roads and inner streets modernized; 120 km of pedestrian paths and sidewalks renovated or newly built to schools, kindergartens, medical institutions and other public services.

The direct beneficiaries will be over 880,000 people from 561 localities, as well as more than 2,000 public institutions, which will have access to safer, modern and comfortable roads, thus strengthening regional infrastructure and the quality of life locally.

The Europe is Close programme, coordinated by the Infrastructure and Regional Development Ministry, continues to bring essential investments to local communities, contributing to the country's connectivity and sustainable development.