A new terminal, modernization of existing infrastructure, handling of vessels up to 100 meters in length, and full utilization of the channel running through the Vistula Spit – this is how the authorities of Elbląg are presenting a comprehensive concept for the development of the local port. The plan is expected to benefit not only the city but also the entire region, providing an economic growth impulse. Three submissions were received in the competition announced by the Elbląg municipal government. The highest-rated concept, titled “Gateway to the Baltic”, was submitted jointly by two Warsaw-based design firms, WSP Polska Sp. z o.o. and WXCA GROUP Spółka z o.o., participating together in the contest.

On February 11, Elbląg’s Mayor, Michał Missan, presented the comprehensive concept for the port’s development. He indicated that the port is intended to become a modern, multimodal transshipment hub. It is meant to offer real solutions for the metallurgical, energy, offshore, infrastructure, machinery, and dual-use sectors. The new terminal is designed to optimize supply chains, reduce transportation costs, and increase the competitiveness of local products on global markets.

“This is a milestone not only for the port but also for the city and the region. I repeatedly emphasize that the planned investments in modern port infrastructure represent the biggest development impulse for the city in the past 50 years – since 1975, when the Elbląg Voivodeship was established. We are hopeful that we can make the most of this ‘five-minute window.’ Today, we are already closer to realizing this very important investment. Importantly, this represents a PLN 200 million component of nearly a billion in total funds that will be invested this term in the city’s economic and social development. I am very pleased, I congratulate the authors of the winning concept, and I thank the competition jury for their work,” Michał Missan said.

The proposed vision for the development of the Port of Elbląg includes the construction of new port areas covering approximately 30 hectares on Żytnia Street. According to the competition jury, the proposed concept is the most functional in terms of handling cargo not only in water transport but also via rail and road. The project optimally utilizes available space, modern technological solutions, and road-rail connections, while remaining financially feasible. The expansion plan also includes modernization of road infrastructure, including the reconstruction of Mazurska Street and the construction of two roundabouts on the connector between the European Union Route and Radomska Street, significantly improving port accessibility and streamlining transportation in this part of the city.

Funding for the port’s expansion and modernization will come from EU support under the regional program “European Funds for Warmia and Masuria 2021–2027.” Additionally, in November last year, the European Commission approved port and port-adjacent investments in Elbląg, providing €40 million in funding. The authors of the winning submission will receive a cash prize of PLN 150,000 gross and an invitation to prepare project-and-cost documentation based on the competition entry, which will form the basis for the investments.

The Elbląg municipal government began preparatory work for the port’s development in June last year. A competition was announced for the development of concepts for modernization and construction of port terminals along the Elbląg River. The projects that reached the final stage were submitted on January 12, 2026, and evaluated by the competition jury. The aim was to obtain creative visions for the port’s development and to provide a preliminary estimate of the costs for future works.

The development of the Port of Elbląg is set to become the municipality’s most important strategic investment, strengthening the city’s economic potential, increasing its investment attractiveness, and creating a solid foundation for the long-term growth of both the city and the region. Work on the implementation of the investments is expected to begin this year. In September, a funding application will be submitted for the construction of two roundabouts on the connector between the European Union Route and Radomska Street, as well as for the reconstruction of Mazurska Street. Next year, the city authorities plan to submit an application for the construction of a terminal on Żytnia Street and the expansion of the terminal on Radomska Street. Completion of all works related to the road network redevelopment and the construction and expansion of port terminals is planned for 2029.