Madrid’s Upcoming Tunnel Closure: The Conde de Casal Underpass
Madrid is undergoing significant infrastructure changes, including the ongoing projects like the Mayritt tunnel boring machine, and the burying of the A-5. Amidst these urban transformations, residents of Madrid are now facing the closure of the busiest underpass in the southern region, the Conde de Casal tunnel, which will remain blocked for ten months. This closure is essential for the construction of a new transport interchange.
Why Is This Closure Happening Now?
The Madrid City Council has announced that the Conde de Casal road tunnel will shut down traffic in both directions starting at 6:00 a.m. on Friday and will not reopen until February 2027. The urban planning delegate, Borja Carabante, emphasized that this closure is necessary for advancing the new transport interchange project and establishing the connection between Metro lines 6 and 11.
Traffic Impact
This blockade is projected to have a significant impact, as approximately 39,000 vehicles traverse the tunnel each day, especially during peak hours in the direction of the city center. The busyness of this route raises concerns about traffic congestion and delays throughout the capital.
Road Changes During Closure
Due to the closure, traffic will undergo redistribution. Two entry lanes will facilitate access from the A-3 towards Plaza de Conde de Casal. However, the exit lane towards the A-3 Valencia and M-30 North will be limited to one lane. The section entering Madrid from the A-3 will also shrink from two lanes to one before the M-30 bridge.
Additionally, certain turns will be prohibited at the square, including left turns towards O’Donnell and from Doctor Esquerdo towards Avenida del Mediterráneo. Starting in September, the council plans to gradually expand the number of available surface lanes.
Recommended Alternative Routes
The Town Hall has published alternative routes for drivers to minimize disruption:
To Enter Madrid:
- A-3 – Plaza Conde de Casal – Glorieta Mariano de Cavia
- A-3 – Plaza Conde de Casal – Doctor Esquerdo – O’Donnell
- M-40 for longer distances
To Leave Madrid:
- Glorieta Mariano de Cavia – Cavanilles – Doctor Esquerdo – surface branch A-3 towards Valencia
- Doctor Esquerdo – Plaza Conde de Casal – surface branch A-3 towards Valencia
- O’Donnell – M-30 southbound – A-3
Public Transport Adjustments
In light of the road changes, the Madrid Regional Transport Consortium has modified the EMT urban bus network. For instance, Line E will resume service at stops near the square, while Line 32 will now deviate through Cavanilles towards Conde de Casal. Other lines will also make adjustments to improve service during this busy period. The city recommends public transport to minimize congestion in the area, especially since restrictions have been ongoing since August 2023.
The Vision Behind the Project
This infrastructural overhaul aims to extend Metro line 11 from Plaza Elíptica to Conde de Casal, covering a 6.9-kilometer stretch that will add two new stations at Parque de Comillas and Madrid Río. Furthermore, the project includes three critical interconnection nodes—integrating various forms of transport for a seamless commuting experience. By January 2027, the interchange will accommodate over 65,000 travelers daily, significantly easing congestion on Metro line 6, which currently transports around one million passengers per day.
Mitigating Issues During Construction
The City Council is aware of the challenges this closure presents. To address community concerns, a special mobility device is being employed, which includes the presence of Municipal Police during the construction phase. Work hours have been limited to between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. to reduce disturbances from noise and dust. The council recognizes the temporary inconveniences, but insists the works are vital for enhancing Madrid’s transportation infrastructure.
Conclusion
As Madrid embarks on this journey of transformation, the upcoming tunnel closure is a pivotal step toward achieving a more integrated and efficient transport network. While the temporary inconvenience may pose challenges, residents can expect a significantly improved system upon the completion of these extensive infrastructural developments.