A new pedestrian bridge over the Ibar River, near the central bridge, has been officially opened, linking the southern and northern parts of Mitrovica. The opening ceremony was attended by Kosovo’s acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti, acting Minister of Infrastructure Hysen Durmishi, Mitrovica South Mayor Faton Peci, and other government officials.
Acting Prime Minister Kurti welcomed the citizens, emphasizing that the bridge will enhance mobility in Mitrovica:
“Today is a joyful day for all citizens of Mitrovica, on both sides of the Ibar River. They have now gained a modern pedestrian bridge to increase connectivity and mobility in this important city for our Republic.”
Kurti also stressed that the bridge should remain open for public use, highlighting the importance of free movement and trade.
Acting Minister Hysen Durmishi described the new bridge as a work of art that will beautify the Ibar area and be accessible to all citizens, north and south, as a promenade over the river. He recalled that the vehicle bridge was initiated on July 2, 2025, completed on August 26, and opened for traffic, while the pedestrian bridge now complements it.
Mayor Faton Peci thanked Kurti for his commitment to the northern part of Kosovo and Mitrovica, noting that bridges symbolize unity and are now taking the right direction thanks to dedication and perseverance.
Construction of the two bridges—one for pedestrians and one for vehicles—began on July 1, 2025, and shortly after the cornerstone was laid, the Kosovo Special Prosecution announced an investigation regarding the contractual process, clarifying that it concerns legal compliance, not the project itself.
The bridges were built under a cooperation memorandum between the Ministry of Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure and the municipalities of Mitrovica North and South.
The estimated cost for both bridges was €2,999,628, with the contract awarded to Eurokos Holding through a negotiated procedure without prior public notice, meaning selected companies were invited directly to bid.
The central Ibar bridge remains closed to vehicles, monitored by Kosovo Police, EULEX, and KFOR, due to ongoing security considerations. The EU’s position emphasizes that any decision regarding its opening should be made carefully and within the framework of dialogue, as stated by EULEX Mission Head Giovanni Pietro Barbano.
Historically, the Ibar Bridge has been a symbolic and contested point. After Kosovo declared independence in 2008, local Serbs placed barricades in 2011 opposing Kosovo authorities. Following agreements in 2014, the area became the “Peace Park”, replacing barricades with concrete barriers and trees, though the park was removed in 2015.
