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As a “vision” for the city that became a reality after almost two decades, the delivery of the Thessaloniki metro was described by the governor of Central Macedonia and now new European Commissioner for Transport Apostolos Tzitzikostas, while emphasizing that from his new duties he will closely monitor the progress of the project.
“I know it’s hard to believe. Thessaloniki has a Metro today. And indeed, one of the most modern Metros in the world,” said Mr. Tzitzikostas and, among other things, added:
“This project started with a New Democracy government and Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis and is being delivered today with a New Democracy government and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.”
Mr. Tzitzikostas, addressing the Prime Minister personally, stated:
“I want to congratulate and thank you, not only for the completion of this project, for which you worked personally, but also for another perhaps even more significant reason. Because with the delivery of the Metro today, the citizens of Thessaloniki’s trust in the state is restored and this project is just the beginning.”
Mr. Tzitzikostas expressed his emotion and satisfaction because a project that citizens had been waiting for eighteen years was delivered today in the city.
“I am truly moved today. Essentially, my last act as governor and my first act as European Commissioner responsible for Transport is the inauguration of the Metro in my city, Thessaloniki. A project that is a milestone for all of Greece. Because indeed the Thessaloniki Metro from the beginning was something more than a transport project, it was a vision for our place, a vision to transform our city to improve the quality of life of our fellow citizens. To bring Thessaloniki closer to the future it deserves.”
Mr. Tzitzikostas referred to the difficulties faced for almost two decades by residents, shopkeepers, and visitors, due to the construction of the Metro, sometimes turning the construction vision into a “nightmare”. However, he pointed out that the metro will now be integrated into the daily life of citizens, with multiple benefits for their transportation and the city, and added:
“The Metro is a reality and becomes an integral part of the daily life and life of our city, which now has a modern, fast, sustainable means of transport that will contribute to improving the quality of life for all, reducing traffic congestion, reducing the environmental footprint, regenerating commercial areas, providing an even better tourism experience for our visitors, and highlighting our culture…”
“We are talking about the only Metro-museum in Europe, and of course, the line we inaugurate today is just the beginning. In 2025 the Kalamaria line will be connected, and the process for the metro’s expansion to western Thessaloniki will quickly proceed,” said Mr. Tzitzikostas and continued:
“I want to assure my fellow citizens that the expansion of the metro to western Thessaloniki is and will remain my priority. I will closely monitor the progress of the project from my new duties.”
“I am truly happy, but also moved because this project, beyond its significance for our place, connects two personal milestones for me, Central Macedonia and the European Commission,” continued Mr. Tzitzikostas.
He emphasized that the Region of Central Macedonia “was the most stable and dedicated partner of the project” by funding with resources, “pressing and claiming” and at the same time added: “Thessaloniki Metro without the European Union simply would not exist, because the resources for constructing this project are mainly from Northern Europe.”
Mr. Tzitzikostas thanked those who worked for the completion of this project and emphasized that the Metro, which “was constructed by Greek engineers, is not only a victory for Thessaloniki, but it is a victory for all of Greece, which has proven especially in recent years that with decisive leadership, it can effectively overcome the obstacles.”
He specifically thanked the Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, expressing his appreciation for her contribution to the project, as she “implemented the right solution for the Venizelou station,” as well as the current and previous leadership of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.
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