Green Kilometers of Cross-Border Connectivity Through the OPTI-BIKE 3 Project

Ahead of European Mobility Week, which begins on September 16, the focus is on initiatives that change our daily commuting habits, protect the environment, and promote healthier lifestyles. An example of such changes in Vojvodina is the OPTI-BIKE 3 project, which directly contributes to a greener, safer, and more connected Europe through the construction of modern cycling infrastructure.

This is a continuation of successful cross-border cooperation between Serbia and Hungary, with the main goal of creating a sustainable, inclusive cycle-tourism brand in the border area. Opti-bike 3 connects natural beauty, cultural heritage, and environmental awareness along the EuroVelo 13 route. The lead partner in the project is the City of Subotica, while the partner from the Hungarian side is the local self-government of Tompa.

A total of 14 kilometers of paths connect Serbia and Hungary via the Bački Vinogradi – Ásotthalom border crossing, facilitating the daily lives of the local population on both sides of the border. Children going to school and people going to work—who study or work on the other side of the border and travel daily by bicycle—will find their commute much simpler and safer. At the same time, a reduction in traffic congestion at border crossings is expected.

The project also includes the introduction of accompanying amenities according to the highest European standards. Plans call for two cycling rest stops with interactive boards, five service points, and four branded bicycle counters in both countries. To facilitate navigation and promote the tourist offer, a trilingual mobile application (in Serbian, Hungarian, and English) is also being developed.

The Opti-bike 3 project is part of the Interreg VI-A IPA Hungary–Serbia programme. The total value of this investment is close to 2.5 million euros, of which the European Union co-finances the project with 1,996,649.69 euros (IPA funds). For activities in the territory of Subotica, 1,189,317.14 euros in European funds have been allocated, while instead of the City of Subotica, the Government of AP Vojvodina has taken upon itself to cover the 15 percent of accompanying local co-financing costs.