by croatiaweek
May 5, 2026
in
(Photo: Grad Zagreb)
At a press conference held at City Hall today, Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomašević unveiled plans for one of the most significant infrastructure projects in the Croatian capital in recent decades, the construction of a new bridge over the River Sava in the western part of the city.
The project marks the first new bridge in western Zagreb in 45 years and will be only the third bridge in the city to include a tram line, highlighting its strategic importance for the city’s future transport development.
The estimated value of the project stands at €140 million, excluding VAT.
According to Mayor Tomašević, property and legal matters have largely been resolved, while the final design of the bridge is expected to be confirmed in the autumn.
Describing the project as “strategically key”, Tomašević said the bridge would enable the expansion of Zagreb’s tram network and improve connectivity, particularly towards the planned National Children’s Hospital and University Hospital in Blato.
Key infrastructure details
The bridge will measure approximately 625 metres in length and 38 metres in width. It will feature four traffic lanes, a dedicated tram line, as well as pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
It will connect the neighbourhoods of Trešnjevka–jug and Novi Zagreb–zapad, forming part of the extended Vrapčanska Street corridor and significantly improving traffic flow between the northern and southern parts of the city.
Design and next steps
An expert evaluation panel comprising ten leading professionals from the fields of civil engineering, transport, architecture and urban planning has been appointed. Their role will be to ensure the bridge is not only functional but also becomes a recognisable symbol of Zagreb.
(Photo: Grad Zagreb)
The next phase includes launching a public design competition, followed by a negotiated procedure for the development of the conceptual design and the issuance of a location permit. The project will then proceed under a “design and build” model.
Timeline
Construction is currently expected to begin in mid-2028.
Once completed, the new bridge is set to play a key role in modernising Zagreb’s transport infrastructure, supporting urban expansion, and enhancing sustainable mobility across the city.