Roads in Lebanon have faced years of deterioration due to neglect, economic crisis, and increased demand from the influx of Syrian refugees. About one-third of the country's main road network, which spans over 6,500 kilometers, is reported to be in moderate to poor condition and urgently needs repair. In 2019, there were 578 road crash fatalities across the country.
To address these challenges, the Roads and Employment Project (REP) was launched in 2017 with a total budget of $200 million. The project is co-financed by a $154.6 million loan from the World Bank and a $45.4 million grant from the Global Concessional Financing Facility. Its objectives include restoring critical paved roads nationwide and creating short-term jobs for both Lebanese citizens and displaced Syrians.
The REP has covered 25 districts throughout Lebanon, focusing on both rehabilitation and routine maintenance of roads. Upgrades under this initiative have included improved drainage systems and slope stabilization to mitigate risks such as flooding and landslides during winter months.
In response to climate change impacts and severe weather events, regional offices of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport have been equipped with emergency response machinery—10 snow blowers, 15 wheel loaders, and 5 salt spreaders—to enhance their ability to manage snowstorms and other emergencies in areas prone to heavy snowfall.
By mid-2025, more than 530 kilometers of roads had been rehabilitated—surpassing the original target—and about 1,000 kilometers maintained. These efforts have led to reduced travel times, better connectivity, and safer roads for millions. Notably, key routes upgraded through the project saw crash fatalities decrease by over 20 percent due to improved signage and safety interventions.
The project’s benefits extend beyond infrastructure improvements. Approximately 1.4 million people now have easier access to essential services, markets, and employment opportunities as a result of these upgrades. Further job creation is anticipated through ongoing government road maintenance programs.
Regarding employment impact, around 1.3 million labor-days of short-term work have been generated for Lebanese nationals as well as Syrian workers in consulting and construction roles within local communities. The initiative has provided opportunities for a diverse workforce including older citizens.
An online platform developed by IMPACT Lebanon allows citizens and project workers to report issues or provide feedback during implementation via QR codes displayed at municipalities or worksites. This system aims to foster transparency and accountability by ensuring local voices are considered throughout the process.
Collaboration with municipalities has played an important role in achieving project goals. Municipal officials highlighted effective communication between contractors, consultants, and local governments as contributing factors in improving previously dangerous roads.
The REP also supported technical aspects of a national road safety program intended for long-term improvement in road safety management practices.
Beyond transportation infrastructure improvements, measures were taken during COVID-19 disruptions: nearly 27,000 small-scale farmers received cash assistance for agricultural inputs; additionally, 1.5 million animal vaccine doses were delivered for annual vaccination programs run by the Ministry of Agriculture—efforts that contributed toward food security by connecting rural communities with markets.