Infrastructure Minister Revaz Sokhadze announced during a parliamentary interpellation that the reconstruction of the Samtredia–Grigoleti bridge, one of western Georgia’s main transport links, is progressing, with one direction expected to reopen to traffic in 2026 and full two-way operations planned for early 2027.
The 801-meter bridge over the Rioni River collapsed in February 2023 after the failure of its eighth pier, cutting off a vital connection between Samtredia and Grigoleti and disrupting the flow of goods and passengers between central Georgia and the Black Sea coast.
Rehabilitation work, led by the Caucasus Road Project company since 2024, involves restoring both parallel bridge structures. Sokhadze stated that the rehabilitation of the piers on one side is nearly complete. “We expect to partially reopen traffic next year while continuing the full reconstruction, which should be finalized by early 2027,” the minister said.
The project, valued at GEL 89 million (approximately USD 33 million), includes GEL 14 million allocated for the demolition of the damaged sections and GEL 75 million for complete rehabilitation. Sokhadze mentioned that difficult river conditions have slowed progress but assured that efforts are in progress to accelerate construction without compromising safety.
Following the collapse, state-appointed experts conducted a detailed technical assessment in late 2023 which served as the basis for the rehabilitation plan approved the following year. Although the year-long gap between the assessment and contract signing drew public criticism, officials emphasized the need for extensive structural analysis and planning before commencing such a complex reconstruction.
Once completed, the restored bridge will reestablish a major highway corridor connecting western Georgia’s agricultural and industrial centers with the Black Sea ports.
