Russian road deals

A notable partnership deal looks set to provide funding for key Russian highway projects. A memorandum of co-operation has been signed between the state-owned Russian Highways (Avtodor) and the 1166 European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). Under this deal the EBRD may provide loans to Avtodor, redeem bonds, or co-operate on concession agreements. This funding stream will allow Avtodor to implement its key PPP projects. Avtodor and the EBRD have been discussing the highway linking Moscow with St Petersburg as well as the reconstruction of the M4 Don road. By 2019, Russia plans to have invested around ?33 billion (US$47.4 billion) to develop its national transportation system, with a significant proportion being provided by private investors. However, some analysts have criticised plans for Moscow's Central Ring Road, proposed by Avtodor. The original plan was to construct the 521km toll road 50-60km from Moscow, although work has not yet commenced on the project. Some ?5.8 billion ($8.36 billion) will be required as investment in the project by 2015, with work intended to be completed by 2022.