The project that would connect a part of the Tenerife capital to important motorways has been in limbo for nearly 30 years. The Ofra-El Chorrillo road link, which aims to link Tenerife’s capital to the TF-2 connection and the Southern motorway, has faced numerous challenges, particularly related to budget issues, causing significant delays. Initiated in 1997, the project has only seen the unfinished bridge over the TF-5 near the Nuestra Señora de Candelaria Hospital being partially constructed after several failed attempts to award contracts for the project’s drafting. Santa Cruz Mayor, José Manuel Bermúdez, revealed to DIARIO DE AVISOS that there has been little progress in the project, with no actions taken or discussions held in recent years.
An essential road that would link Los Príncipes Avenue through Taco Mountain with San Matías, providing traffic relief to the area, the Ofra-El Chorrillo road is crucial for enhancing connectivity between the two cities. Bermúdez emphasised that although not the most significant route in the metropolitan area, it serves as a vital transversal axis.
In efforts to expedite the process, Bermúdez has urged the Government to promptly tender the construction project for burying the TF-4, similar to the successful completion of a similar project in Fañabé. This initiative aims to enhance traffic flow through Cabo Llanos, a key point for traffic improvement at the Port’s exit near the Auditorium area.
Focusing on the Ofra-El Chorrillo road, it’s important to note that the Department of Public Works awarded the drafting project in February 2022 for over 348,000 euros. However, progress has been stalled two years later, prompting Public Works to consider re-tendering the project.
Current efforts involve finalizing the construction project’s draft while awaiting the necessary approvals from the Government. The Infrastructure Councilor of the Capital City Council, Javier Rivero, highlighted the ongoing wait for the project’s completion, with the Mayor continually pressing the Government for updates.
In 2022, Canarian Coalition committees in Santa Cruz and La Laguna requested Public Works to initiate works for completing sections B and C of the project, seeking necessary funding for its commencement and conclusion. The road project dates back to 1996 when it was initially included in the pavement reinforcement plans for the TF-5 highway. However, various challenges, including land expropriation difficulties, have hindered the project’s progress over the years.
