The EU will contribute with €726 million to the new 121 km connection between the two cities. The project is part of the Trans-European Transport Network and includes two lanes running in each direction, 10 interchanges, and 75 bridges or passages.

The new express road will improve traffic in the region, which currently includes average speeds of below 60 km/h and numbers of fatalities at 5.8% above the average for Romania. Shorter journey times between Craiova and Piteşti will cut transport costs and boost the economic efficiency of Romania’s road network.

Taking long-distance traffic away from built-up areas will alleviate congestion and pollution, reduce accidents and improve quality of life for residents. The road will create temporary jobs, and should boost trade in the area, thereby generating economic development and widening access to employment.

The project should be completed by the end of 2023. More information regarding EU funded investments in Romania is available on the Open Data Platform.