For communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, road investment is transforming the economy. With World Bank support, new construction and rehabilitation projects are improving connectivity along the Adriatic coast, linking remote villages with major trade corridors. These efforts enhance road safety and protect transport routes from natural disasters, boosting the region's economy.
The 36-kilometer Neum–Stolac road is a significant development. In Neum, improved access extends the tourist season and enhances supply chains. In Stolac, easier coastal access attracts more visitors and creates business opportunities.
Previously, travelers avoided the narrow pass between Neum and Stolac, opting for a longer route through Croatia. This detour increased costs and discouraged investment in inland areas.
Tomislav Lovrić, owner of two hotels in Neum, noted: “I had been to Stolac maybe five times in my life, it used to take an hour and a half to get there. Now, we’re there in just 25 minutes. This road opens up a million possibilities.” Restaurants and hotels now welcome more visitors earlier in the year.
In Stolac, Dženita Pirija observes that visitor numbers have increased: "Thanks to this road, Stolac has become much more accessible." The town also benefits from a new bypass easing congestion.
Halid Geri, a local farmer, said: “This [bypass] road has been a blessing. Stolac is coming back to life.”
These projects are part of the Federation Road Sector Modernization Project (FRSMP), which includes 28 transit upgrades across Bosnia and Herzegovina. Supported by the World Bank and European Investment Bank with $101.3 million funding, these initiatives address key transport challenges.
A framework national transport strategy agreed upon in 2016 enabled these investments despite delays due to administrative fragmentation. Recent progress improves safety across major corridors.
The FRSMP also rehabilitated the Crnaja tunnel on Corridor Vc—a vital trade route—enhancing safety after years of being a dangerous bottleneck.
Ljubo Pravdić from Roads of the Federation of BiH emphasized: “[This project] is a major step for our economy... It brings the coast closer to everyone.”