Santa Cruz de Tenerife, 20 Feb. (Europa Press) –
The Cabildo de Tenerife has finished the installation of the central framework for the significant pedestrian ring of Father Anchieta within 10 months of work. This project aims to enhance mobility and safety for pedestrians in La Laguna, with plans to inaugurate it in September 2025.
The installation of 11 modules for the central ring of the project has been completed, with final work expected to wrap up after summer. This endeavour has entailed one of the “more intricate” logistics and engineering operations, as stated in an announcement.
Following the establishment of the complete primary structure, the forthcoming phase will involve constructing access points that will connect the ring to key locations in the lagoon, thereby facilitating pedestrian mobility and integration with the public transport network.
The North Access, situated on Avenida de la Trinidad, will connect the already constructed ramp with the main footbridge. Its framework, weighing 150 tons, will necessitate four special transport vehicles for relocation and is anticipated to take place in March 2025.
Conversely, the East Access will provide a direct connection to the Laguna Transport Exchanger, linking with a ramp, stairs, and a direct approach to the footbridge. The construction of this access will involve transferring 200 tons of structure across nine special transports, with a projected execution timeline from March to May 2025.
Throughout this period, specific measures will be implemented at the exchanger to ensure its integration with the footbridge while minimising disruption to the transport service.
Lastly, the South Access, referred to as LOOP, will add 160 tons of structure to the assembly and will require eight special transports for its relocation and installation. Its construction is planned for April 2025, thereby completing the access network to the ring.
Once these accesses are finalised, the concluding tasks will be performed to implement the infrastructure, including the application of non-slip finishes on the surface of the footbridge, the removal of existing pedestrian steps, and the environmental integration of the area surrounding the roundabout.
Upon the completion of these phases, the extensive pedestrian ring of Father Anchieta will be fully operational by the beginning of the 2025-2026 academic year, establishing itself as a benchmark for sustainable mobility and pedestrian safety in Tenerife.
ACCESSIBILITY
Among the measures undertaken to ensure accessibility are the installation of a lift on Trinidad Avenue, complementing accessible ramps, and the implementation of gradients below 6%, with strategic resting points to assist people with reduced mobility.
The project will also incorporate double handrails, secure barriers, and illuminated railings throughout the structure, ensuring safety and comfort for all pedestrians.
Furthermore, the initiative includes a comprehensive transformation of the urban environment. The redevelopment of the area will involve constructing new pavements, relocating the statue of Father Anchieta, and establishing a landscaped square within the Faculty of Biology.
Likewise, the infrastructure will be integrated with the Laguna Transport Exchanger, reinforcing the connection between various modes of transport and fostering an accessible and functional space for the community.