Batumi: $ 20 Million to Protect Beaches and Refurbish Pedestrian Bridges

Batumi, the “Pearl of the Black Sea,” is one of the fastest developing areas along the Black Sea coast and plays a key role in the Georgian economy - the tourism sector in particular. With a population of 160,000, the coastal city is a popular destination for locals and foreigner visitors alike when warmer weather approaches.

For this reason, Batumi regularly receives financial support and is the target of many government projects to enhance its tourism potential. Currently, the Municipal Development Fund (MDF) of the Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure of Georgia is implementing a project to stem coastal erosion in Batumi and nearby beaches. 

Supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the project is worth $21 million and is dedicated to refurbishing the coastline. 12 pedestrian bridges will be constructed, and the damaged sections of the boulevard will be refurbished. The works are scheduled to be completed in 2019.

In 2015, a similar project amounting to $20 million was also supported by the ADB.

ADB, based in Manila, is aimed at eradicating poverty in Asia and the Pacific by supporting inclusive, resilient and sustainable economic growth. It includes loans, technical assistance and grants. Established in 1966, it is owned by its 67 members. ADB has supported projects in Georgia since 2007.

By Antoine Dewaest

Photo: Alsandro Construction