In Bistrița-Năsăud, 2025 has been marked by a wave of controversial public investments. Despite the local government announcing a record budget of over 160 milion lei, spending priorities seem unbalanced. Large sums have been directed towards the construction and development of sports complexes, like the Teraplast Arena or new synthetic football fields in central neighbourhoods. Meanwhile, residents districts such as Viisoara, Slatinita and Unirea complain about poor public lighting, deteriorated streets and nonfunctional sewage systems.

“Every spring, the road to school is a nightmare for kids because of the large holes. Meanwhile, we see empty stadiums with milion lei lighting systems.” says Maria C., a resident of Subcetate. 

National handball match at Teraplast Arena, publicly funded sports venue. Image: Dobocan Sara.

Urban regeneration projects remain stuck on paperwork or caught in dispute. Ghost projects, such as the long awaited municipal Aquapark announced in 2021, appear to have vanished. The lack of transparency in budgeting from City Hall raises serious concerns about how efficiently tax money is being used.

Road in Unirea with puddles after rain. Image: Rus Teodora.

Despite local promises, conditions remain poor în Bistrița-Năsăud. As of May 2025, over 40% of rural roads need urgent repairs, according to the County Roads Directorate. In places like Budacu de Jos and Dumitra, potholes damage vehicles and force public transport to reroute and reduce. Still, funding continues to favor sports facilities over essential infrastructure.