Breakthrough marks major milestone on Kozjak Tunnel near Split

A breakthrough ceremony was held today for the 2.5-kilometer Kozjak Tunnel, marking the completion of excavation as crews connected the two ends of the tunnel. 

The tunnel is a key part of a new road link that will improve transportation around Split.

The project is part of a transportation investment worth more than €120 million, designed to strengthen connections between the Dalmatian hinterland and the city. It will be implemented in three phases, with the ultimate goal of creating a direct link between the A1 motorway and the Port of Split while reducing traffic congestion across the city.

Calling the breakthrough a "historic moment," Minister of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure Oleg Butković said the milestone came after years of preparation.

"After overcoming numerous challenges, we have finally reached this milestone. Those challenges included securing financing—this project will be funded with European Union money—completing the design and planning, preparing the necessary documentation, carrying out climate and environmental impact studies, and obtaining all the required permits. And, of course, the project now moves on to its next phase," Butković said.

The next major stage of the project will include the construction of a bridge across Kaštela Bay.

"If you look toward Split, we will also need to build a bridge across Kaštela Bay. I hope the cities of Split and Kaštela will adopt the necessary amendments to their zoning plans so we can move forward with the bridge," said Ivica Budimir, CEO of the state-owned road company Hrvatske ceste.