The construction of the final segment of Europе highway, connecting Slivnitsa and the Sofia Ring Road, commenced with a groundbreaking ceremony. The construction is undertaken by Europe-2022, a collaboration between Glavbolgarstroy Infrastructure Construction, Glavbolgarstroy International, and Obonato Build. This section spans 16.5 km.

"Today marks the start of constructing the last part of the Europe highway, a feat achieved through significant effort since the official cabinet's inception," said Architect Ivan Shishkov, Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, as quoted by BTA, during the ceremony.

Shishkov noted that detailed development plans, expropriation, and building permits for the section have all been approved. The interim regional minister expects completion of the 16-kilometer section within eighteen months, thereby finalizing the entire highway. He anticipates focused, high-quality work from the builders, adhering to the schedule.

Speaking on behalf of Europe-2022, Eng. Kamen Peshov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Glavbolgarstroy Holding, expressed excitement about embarking on the new project, anticipating challenges that will be efficiently overcome with quality and timeliness.

The upcoming segment of the Europe highway will forge a new route between Slivnitsa and the Sofia Ring Road, merging with the Northern Express Tangent. The plan includes the construction of 5 underpasses, 2 overpasses, 2 bridges, and 1 viaduct. Furthermore, four road connections and two road junctions - "Kostinbrod" and "Mramor" - will be established.

This undertaking is part of the "Europe highway from km 15+500 to km 48+903" initiative, co-funded by the European Union's Cohesion Fund and the national budget through the 2014-2020 Operational Program "Transport and Transport Infrastructure." The project comprises two sections: Dragoman to Slivnitsa, operational since June 2021, and Slivnitsa to Sofia Ring Road.