"Georgia has shown significant economic progress in recent years, although economic growth has been unevenly distributed and has been severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. This project will help relieve Georgia of the impact of the pandemic and contribute to more sustainable, multifaceted and post-climate development of cities," - Director General of its Central and West Asia Regional Department, Eugene Zhukov, said. 

ADB's Livable Cities Investment Project for Balanced Development estimates that it will benefit 1.5 million people in Tbilisi and the regions.

The resources provided by the project will be used for the rehabilitation of city centers, public places and parks and the improvement of public transport. Within the frames of the project, libraries, e-learning centers, kindergartens, sports complexes and other institutions of public importance will be built. The project will be implemented in accordance with the ADB's Inclusive Cities Guidelines to provide universal access and create an adapted environment for the elderly, people with disabilities, women and children.

The project will also help rehabilitate cultural sites, historic city centers and other tourist sites. Transport systems, including the Tbilisi Metro, will also be upgraded to promote improved access and tourism, which is a major driver of the Georgian economy.

The project will also strengthen the government's capacity to promote regional and local economic growth through training programs.