site.btaLv 237 Mln Allocated to Upgrade Public Transport Systems in 39 Larger Towns

Sofia, December 25 (BTA) - A total of 237 million leva has been earmarked under Operational Programme "Regions in Growth 2014-2020" to upgrade the public transport systems in 39 larger cities and towns in Bulgaria, the Regional Development and Public Works Ministry said.

The capital and largest city Sofia will use 124 million leva. The money will be spent on the overhaul of tramways, including a section along the main part of King Boris III Boulevard, which is a major thoroughfare. Thirteen modern trams will be purchased. Urban development experts say that tramway transport should be a priority, not only because it is environmentally friendly, but also because it allows passengers to feel they are part of the urban environment and to enjoy the sight of green spaces.

The seaport of Varna, which is Bulgaria's third-largest city, will use part of the 37 million leva allocated to it to build 25 smart crosswalks in order to improve pedestrians' safety. Each crosswalk will have a system of sensors built into its surface. The sensors will allow the crosswalk to light up any time a passenger steps onto it.

Varna will upgrade its traffic control system as well. Real-time control of traffic lights will relieve congestion. In addition, some of the city's thoroughfares will be repaired and 15 new eco buses will be bought.

A new pedestrian area will be built in downtown Rousse (on the Danube). The riverside boulevard will be reconstructed into a two-way avenue carrying public transport vehicles as well as other vehicles. This will take some traffic off minor streets. Surveillance cameras will be put up at important intersections to allow remote traffic control.

Sliven (Southeastern Bulgaria) will acquire 27 diesel-powered buses, and Pernik (near Sofia) will purchase 15 methane-powered buses.

During the previous programme period, 2007 to 2013, Operational Programme "Regional Development" provided 413 million leva to Bulgaria seven largest cities to improve their transport systems.