Gdansk UrbanTransport Project

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The EBRD intends to extend loans to the cities of Gdansk and Sopot to finance improvements in urban transport infrastructure. In Gdansk the project aims to: In Sopot the project aims to: The project will have an impact on the transition through: The clients are the neighbouring cities of Gdansk and Sopot in the Tri-city coastal region of Poland. Gdansk has a population of 460,000 and is the capital of the province of Pomerania, and Sopot has 43,000. The EBRD would provide financing of €12 million to Gdansk and €5 million to Sopot. The project will also include a creditworthiness enhancement programme for the city of Gdansk. The loans would be senior loans without sovereign or bank guarantees. €30 million during 2001-2004 in case of Gdansk, and €8 million in case of Sopot during 2002-2003. The EBRD's loans in Sopot and Gdansk are classified B/0. The project is expected to provide environmental benefits. Public transport modernisation in Gdansk is expected to result in a relative improvement to environmental conditions, as it will assist in retaining public transport ridership. In Sopot, the proposed underpasses will improve pedestrian and cyclist safety; the urban traffic control system will reduce noise levels and car exhaust emissions as a result of freer flowing traffic and reductions in idling; and the minor traffic schemes comprise traffic calming measures that will create better environmental conditions for residents and tourists. An Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) has been carried out to determine the appropriate screening category for the project and scope of environmental due diligence. The IEE did not identify significant environmental issues associated with the proposed project.. Environmental aspects of the proposed development were addressed through an environmental analysis that was a part of the feasibility study. The analysis showed that there is some potential for disturbance during construction as a result of land-take and noise and dust generation associated with the laying of cables. Such work, however, will be of short duration and effects can be minimised through incorporation of good practice including forewarning and signing of works, restriction of working hours, etc. €1.6 million financed by EU-PHARE through the Bangkok Facility.