Modernization of Bahçeköy (Kipoi) border crossing advances with €13 million upgrade

Construction and renovation works at the Kipoi Border Crossing in the Meriç region are progressing, as authorities move ahead with a €13 million modernization project aimed at improving infrastructure, increasing traffic capacity and reducing vehicle waiting times.

The progress was reviewed during a visit on August 28 by Georgios Kellis, Coordinator for the Restoration and Reconstruction of Meriç, who inspected ongoing works at both the Kipoi border crossing and the port of Dedeağaç.

At the Kipoi Border Crossing, the construction of several new facilities is advancing. The new Narc Control building is nearing completion of its reinforced-concrete structural frame, with masonry work scheduled to begin next. The steel framework of the new X-RAY building and the working dogs facility has also been completed.

Meanwhile, foundation works are progressing rapidly on the new Phytosanitary and Veterinary Inspection buildings, alongside the construction of a parking area opposite the facilities.

Renovation work is also underway at the existing border station. Current interventions include repairs to plasterwork and waterproofing on the shelters, replacement of window frames and glazing, as well as electrical and mechanical upgrades.

Road construction is simultaneously progressing on the new bypass road toward Gemisti. Asphalt paving is expected to begin within the next two weeks, according to the information provided during Kellis' visit.

The modernization project has a total budget of €13 million. Its main objectives are to create modern and functional border-crossing facilities, increase the number of traffic lanes and improve the flow of vehicles, thereby reducing waiting times for travelers and transport operators.

Following his inspection of the construction works, Kellis met with Kipoi Customs Director Christos Nakos, who briefed him on traffic levels and the flow of vehicles entering and leaving the country.

“The modernization of the Kipoi Customs Border Crossing is an important investment for Meriç and the country,” Kellis said, emphasizing the goal of creating a modern customs facility capable of meeting the growing demands of cross-border traffic.

New road connection to Dedeağaç port
Kellis also visited the port of Dedeağaç, where he met Konstantinos Chatzikonstantinou, CEO of the Dedeağaç Port Organization, to discuss the progress of a road project connecting the commercial port with the new bypass road.

The project forms part of Section B of the wider “Dedeağaç Port Infrastructure Upgrade” and involves the construction of a 1.5-kilometer road within the port's land zone.

The new road will connect the port's new commercial pier directly with the new bypass, allowing commercial traffic to be diverted toward the Egnatia Motorway through the bypass's new eastern branch.

The planned connection is expected to help reduce pressure on Dedeağaç's urban road network by providing a more direct route for commercial vehicles traveling to and from the port.

Part of the road connection has already been completed, while the installation of roadside safety barriers is currently underway.

According to the project site manager, the first section of the new bypass is expected to be formally handed over for use by the Special Public Works Service for Macedonia, Epirus and Thrace within October.