Saranda, one of the most sought-after coastal cities by tourists and visitors, is undergoing continuous transformation, thanks to a series of innovative projects that are being implemented in the very heart of the city. These include the stunning “Skënderbej” pedestrian street, the Multi-Functional Reception Center with parking spaces for cars, buses, taxis, and bicycles, the revamped “Road 5”, redesigned intersections to ease seasonal traffic, as well as sports facilities.

In addition, soon the development of “Road 6” will begin, alongside the transformation of the former maternity hospital into the Underwater World Museum, the reconstruction of the Palace of Culture, and the construction of the new headquarters for the University.

Prime Minister Edi Rama, currently in Saranda, took a walk through the area where these projects are being developed, accompanied by Saranda’s Mayor, Oltion Çaçi, and the Director of the Albanian Development Fund, Dritan Agolli, to see the progress of the ongoing investments.

“We are here at the Welcome Center, which is a reception project financed through a loan from the World Bank. It is part of a network of multi-functional reception centers. In essence, this facility provides parking, with another floor dedicated to bus parking, spaces for taxis, electric scooters, and bicycles, along with charging stations. On the top floor, there’s a bar, a restaurant, a ticket office, and other service areas,” explained Dritan Agolli, Director of the Albanian Development Fund, regarding the Multi-Functional Reception Center project.

“We’re currently at another construction site, which is part of a broader series of integrated interventions aimed at improving traffic flow, especially during the busy tourist season. Specifically, the rehabilitation of Road 5 is almost complete and will be finished in two to three weeks. Additionally, as part of the World Bank project, several intersections are being remodeled. Mobility experts have reviewed and redesigned these intersections, widening them to ensure smoother traffic flow,” Agolli explained further about the Road 5 project and the surrounding area.

Regarding the pedestrian zone, Agolli highlighted that with these integrated interventions, the area has been completely transformed from a mere traffic road, which lacked any real value, into a pedestrian-friendly space, becoming a key part of Saranda’s tourism offerings.

“This is an old neighborhood with semi-historical significance. It represents how public investments can catalyze private investments, increasing property values. On Mit’hat Hoxha Street, we’ve started work on the sidewalks, and this 3 km stretch has been transformed into a pedestrian area. We’ve narrowed the asphalt lanes and expanded the sidewalks to enhance walkability. We’re also working on another road, Sheshi Europa, where the contract has been signed,” Agolli continued, explaining another aspect of the projects involving roads and squares.

As for the transformation of the former maternity hospital into the Underwater World Museum, Agolli pointed out that it’s not just a museum but a dynamic, interactive space.

“It’s a multi-functional center. While it will feature the Underwater Museum, it will also have spaces for the youth. It’s more than just a museum; it will be an interactive experience, with a bar, conference rooms, and other facilities. This beautiful building dates back to the 1930s, and as part of the integrated interventions, we’re also rehabilitating the game halls and two sports areas. There will even be a mini sports complex in the heart of the city,” he explained.

Prime Minister Rama praised the work that has been done, noting how it has effectively freed up valuable city space.

“There’s a noticeable change in Saranda in these areas where interventions have taken place. It feels like the city has taken a breath—it’s been liberated,” he said.

This ambitious transformation of Saranda promises to bring modern European standards to the city while preserving its rich history and culture, making it an even more attractive destination for both tourists and residents alike.