The first stage of evaluating bids for the design and construction of the tram line connecting Didi Dighomi and the Tbilisi Metro Didube station has been completed, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze says.
Kaladze stated that details are currently being clarified with bidders and the winning company will be selected afterward. He says the contract is expected to be signed by the end of June.
“The implementation of the project will begin immediately,” the mayor noted during a session of the Tbilisi Municipality Government.
The tender was announced on March 31 and is being conducted under procurement rules of the Asian Development Bank. Four major companies and joint ventures submitted bids for the project.
According to City Hall, the tram line will begin near the intersection of the third and fourth microdistricts of Didi Dighomi and connect to the area surrounding Didube metro station through Davit Agmashenebeli Alley and Digomi Massif.
The planned tram line will stretch approximately 7.5 kilometers and include 11 stops. The project also includes construction of a depot designed to serve 11 trams.
Kaladze says the project will cost an estimated 417 million GEL and will be fully financed by the state budget.
“As you know, the project is of historical importance, because this type of transport is returning to the capital after many years,” the mayor stated.
He added that the tram system is expected to improve access to public transportation for residents of Didi Dighomi and reduce travel and waiting times.
