As part of the project "Upgrading the port open for public transport of county importance in Crikvenica" a 130 m secondary pier was built, and the Mala palada breakwater extended by 50 m, changing the familiar look of the Crikvenica coastline. The project helps meet the safety demands for the regular operation of the county line Crikvenica – Šilo (island of Krk), which is very important to the island's inhabitants, considering 15.000 passengers use the line each year. Ultimately, access to medical and educational services will be improved for the island population, along with creating more opportunities for employment on the mainland.
The construction on the project “Upgrading the port open for public transport of county importance in Crikvenica” has been completed. This marks the successful realization of one of the largest investments in maritime property in Primorje-Gorski kotar County. Starting in January 2019, the construction works in Crikvenica were carried out by a domestic consortium comprised of Crikvenica-based Izgradnja Ltd. and DSS trade for the construction of hydraulic structures and underwater works, and Rijeka-based BSK commerce Ltd.
The scope of the project involved the construction of a 130-meter secondary pier that will be used primarily for the mooring and berth for the Crikvenica – Šilo line. This high-speed ferry represents the quickest access to health care, work or school for around 15 thousand passengers that use it each year.
The view of the Crikvenica waterfront was also changed by the upgrades made to the ‘Mala palada’ protective breakwater, converting it into a T-shape. Thanks to the upgrade, westerly and tramontane winds will no longer menace the boats at their mooring. The completed pier and breakwater were paved with stones and outfitted with bollards and cleats, electrical enclosures and water cabinets, and fire hydrant lines. The newly-installed lighthouse at the front of the pier will ensure the new Crikvenica port shines brightly.
Due to the implementation of the project, the Port of Crikvenica meets the demands for the secure berth and accommodation of the Crikvenica – Šilo passenger craft, which is of great significance for the inhabitants of Krk. Moving the craft to a new berth will reduce congestion in the Port of Crikvenica, whose effective functioning is an important factor in growing the local economy.
The €4.4 million project is almost entirely funded from the Operational Programme „Competitiveness and Cohesion 2014-2020“ within the specific objective „increased accessibility of inhabited islands for their inhabitants“. The County Port Authority of Crikvenica implemented the project in cooperation with the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure and the Central Finance and Contracting Agency.