The construction of a crucial section of Poland’s S19 expressway, spanning between Domaradz and Krosno in the Podkarpackie region, has come to an abrupt halt following the termination of a PLN 1 billion contract. This development is set to further delay the Via Carpatia route, a significant transport corridor aimed at enhancing connectivity in southeastern Poland. Initially, the General Directorate for National Roads and Motorways (GDDKiA) had signed the contract with Mostostal Warszawa in November 2022, with an expected completion date set for June 2026. However, as of spring 2026, only about 5% of the construction work had been accomplished.
In April, Mostostal Warszawa communicated its decision to withdraw from the contract, attributing the move to GDDKiA’s delays in fulfilling contractual obligations and other unresolved issues. The contractor highlighted unexpected ground conditions that raised costs by approximately PLN 150 million, alongside additional changes mandated by the environmental authority, potentially adding another PLN 400 million to the budget. In response, GDDKiA dismissed these claims, accusing Mostostal of inadequate project progression. The authority formally ended the contract in May, subsequently focusing on securing the site and evaluating the work completed thus far.
With the inventory process now wrapped up, GDDKiA plans to initiate a new tender to complete the Domaradz–Krosno stretch around late August to early September. The new contractor is expected to fulfill the remaining work within 26 to 28 months of contract signing, maintaining the existing budget without increases. This move is crucial to regaining momentum on the S19 expressway, a key segment of the broader Via Carpatia project.
Meanwhile, other sections of the Via Carpatia in the Podkarpackie region are also experiencing setbacks. The Babice–Jawornik section has had its completion date revised to October 2027. Additionally, the Rzeszów Południe–Babice stretch, which includes a tunnel extending over 2.2 kilometers, is now slated for completion in January 2028. These delays are compounding the pressure on the development of the Via Carpatia, which is envisioned as a vital corridor linking southeastern Poland with the larger European road network.