Tenders for both phases of the four-lane Paphos-Polis Chrysochous highway are expected to be launched in the first half of 2027, according to an announcement by Transport Minister Evie Tsolaki. Speaking on Monday following a high-level meeting in Polis with key local stakeholders, Tsolaki confirmed that updated plans and the next operational steps are currently being finalized. The major infrastructure initiative, which has suffered continuous delays since initial efforts began in 1990, is now being streamlined to ensure no further obstacles block progress.
Minister Tsolaki highlighted that property expropriations for the route have already moved forward substantially, clearing a major hurdle that previously stalled the project. Planning for two additional lanes is progressing simultaneously to integrate both phases of the highway and avoid future administrative bottlenecks. Government departments and utility services are coordinating to submit their infrastructure requirements and final technical views to the ministry as quickly as possible, ensuring that all necessary provisions are integrated before tendering.
Drafting the procurement terms is currently underway. This stage will be followed by the official tender call, bid submissions, and a detailed evaluation process. While acknowledging that bid evaluation is inherently time-consuming, Tsolaki stressed that meticulous preparation is essential to prevent past mistakes that resulted in protracted delays. Regular coordination meetings are being held with President Nikos Christodoulides and the Public Works Department to maintain momentum, with Tsolaki expressing confidence that the project will meet its set deadlines.
Local officials have underscored the vital importance of the route for the region's mobility and safety. Polis Mayor Yiotis Papachristofi noted that local communities have been the most severely impacted by decades of stagnation and expressed hope that the tender process will proceed without further setbacks. Once completed, the modern four-lane highway will dramatically enhance connectivity between Paphos and the northwestern coast, providing safer driving conditions for thousands of daily motorists.