Podgorica: Karađorđev Park will not be completed by spring despite "maximum efforts"

The "maximum efforts" of Podgorica's "Zelenil" to open the reconstructed Karađorđev Park by the end of 2024 have not borne fruit, and it is almost certain that it will not be completed by spring.

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Planned plateau around the monument: Karađorđev Park, Photo: Danilo Misita
Planned plateau around the monument: Karađorđev Park, Photo: Danilo Misita
Disclaimer: The translations are mostly done through AI translator and might not be 100% accurate.

After telling "Vijesti" in mid-November that the works could be completed by the end of the year, "Zelenil" now states that the dynamics of the works were influenced by several factors, but that weather conditions were the main reason for the extension.

They explain that this is outdoor work and that rainy periods have made it impossible to carry it out.

"We should note that since the beginning of the works, there have been more rainy days than dry days, and that it is not possible to carry out the works in such circumstances. Since this involves earthworks and works in open spaces, it is necessary that there are dry days in a row, which means that the changeable weather with the alternation of rain and dry weather also prolongs the works," Zelenil replied to "Vijesti".

They also state that certain works require specific weather conditions, which is why their start had to be postponed.

"Some specific works on this construction site depend on the range of external temperatures. The construction of the specific 'stone carpet' substrate requires temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. In addition, in the previous period there were many holidays (non-working days) when the works were not carried out. The works were initially prolonged by protests from locals."

Although the company previously announced that the reconstruction would last 70 working days, they now claim that this deadline has not been met, because, as they explain, it is calculated solely based on the number of dry days suitable for outdoor work.

The works began on October 24, 2024.

"The deadline for the reconstruction of the park is 70 dry days during which it is possible to carry out outdoor work, which, taking into account all the objective accompanying circumstances that influenced the work, has not been exceeded. If, above all, the weather conditions are favorable, we can expect the completion of the reconstruction of the park towards the end of March, beginning of April," Zelenil announced.

Residents of nearby buildings had previously protested against the cutting of trees in the park, which led to the interruption of work.

"Zelenilo" now points out that they conducted a landscape assessment before the reconstruction, to determine which trees can be preserved and which need to be removed.

"It was determined that certain trees, due to poor vitality and condition, as well as age, must be removed. Every healthy tree has been preserved," the company claims.

They point out that the reconstruction plan also includes planting around 300 tree and shrub seedlings.

"Vijesti" announced in mid-November last year that the reconstruction of Karađorđe Park would cost more than 680.000 euros.

"The tender documentation stipulates that the works will last 70 working days, while this Company will make maximum efforts so that our fellow citizens can enjoy the reconstructed park by the end of this year," said "Zelenil" at the time.

In addition to, as they stated, new furniture of contemporary design, the company headed by Petar Krivokapić also said that citizens will be able to walk on renovated pedestrian paths, as well as exercise in a reconstructed outdoor gym.

They also stated that the central motif of the park will remain the monument, around which, they claim, a plateau will be built that will connect all the walking trails.

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