Thessaloniki and Northern Greece are at the heart of a historic development shift, with infrastructure projects exceeding €4 billion. These initiatives are not just construction works—they represent a coordinated policy drive aiming to transform the region into a technological, transportation, and educational hub for Southeastern Europe.
Thessaloniki: At the Crossroads of a New Era
Metro Extension to Kalamaria – On Track for 2026 Completion
The long-awaited metro extension in Thessaloniki towards Kalamaria, adding 5 new stations and 4.8 km of new track, is entering its final phase following electrification activation. With a budget of €516 million, the construction consortium AKTOR is operating in three shifts daily, aiming for delivery in the first quarter of 2026.
Thessaloniki International Fair Regeneration – Smaller but Fully Public
The regeneration of the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) is undergoing redesign. Without private investors, the budget is now limited to €120 million in public funds under the Superfund. Exhibition space of 30,000 m² will be maintained, while hotels are removed from the plan, focusing on a green, functional overhaul of the site.
ThessINTEC – Greece’s First 4th Generation Technology Park
ABAX Group, via ETETh, is leading the development of ThessINTEC, a technology ecosystem next to Macedonia Airport. The first phase includes 5,500 m² of office space and 5,000 m² of laboratories, with costs exceeding €70 million, half of which comes from the Recovery Fund. This is a strategic investment uniting education, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Investments in Ports and Their Connections
Thessaloniki Port’s 6th Pier – A Key Trade Infrastructure
The expansion of the 6th pier of Thessaloniki Port, costing €180 million, is expected to be signed soon. This will double container handling capacity, enhancing the port’s competitiveness in the Black Sea and Balkans region.
The project aims for completion by the first half of 2028, barring delays.
Rail Connectivity and New European Lines
- 6th Pier – Western Thessaloniki Suburban Railway: A €66.3 million project moving towards contract signing in 2025/2026.
- Nea Karvali – Toxotes Railway: A €211 million project facing delays due to legal challenges.
- Thessaloniki – Promachonas and Pythio – Ormenio: Secured €299 million funding from CEF II.
- Alexandroupolis – Odessa Link: Part of the Bosphorus Bypass Project, reactivated after international cooperation.
Logistics Park at Gonou Camp – The Next Game Changer
The Superfund (PPF) is advancing the tender for developing 672 hectares in western Thessaloniki. Goldair – Aktor and Thessaloniki Port Authority remain in competitive dialogue. The logistics park could attract investments up to €260 million, serving as a major transshipment hub.
PPP Projects Reshaping Northern Greece
Flyover Thessaloniki – A Landmark Project
After initial controversies, the Flyover is progressing with 10 active construction sites and 30% completion, budgeted at €373.2 million. The ABAX – METKA consortium has committed to delivery by May 2027.
Road PPPs: Drama – Amphipolis & Thessaloniki – Edessa
- Drama – Amphipolis: Invitation for bids approved, budgeted at €199.8 million
- Thessaloniki – Edessa: Ongoing competitive dialogue, budgeted at €411 million
A major milestone is the Egnatia Motorway concession to the GEK TERNA – Egis consortium, expected by the end of 2025, valued at €1.35 billion.
Educational Infrastructure – Northern Greece Educates Anew
- 17 new school units in Central Macedonia under a €159.2 million PPP (contractor: Metlen – ATESE)
- Student dormitories in Thrace: A €107.3 million PPP awaiting signature with AKTOR
- Student dormitories in Western Macedonia: Advancing to binding offers stage (€105.3 million)
A Developmental Geography is Changing
Northern Greece—and especially Thessaloniki—are dynamically entering the modern European stage. These projects are not just technical or economic works; they are strategic tools for regional convergence, outward orientation, and digital upgrading.
When policy meets planning, infrastructure becomes development. And development is the future.
Source: pagenews.gr