President Highlights Progress on Major Infrastructure Project
Funchal, Madeira — The construction of a new tunnel connecting Quebradas in Santa Rita to Amparo is on track for completion by October 2025, according to Miguel Albuquerque, president of the Madeira Government. During a visit to the site today, Albuquerque praised the steady progress of the project and reiterated its significance for the future of Funchal.
Funchal Tunnel to Relieve Traffic Near New Hospital
The Quebradas-Amparo tunnel, stretching 975 meters, is the first of seven tunnels planned as part of a broader project to improve Funchal’s horizontal road network. Albuquerque emphasized the tunnel’s importance for reducing traffic congestion, particularly around the new hospital currently under construction, estimating a 15% decrease in traffic in that area once the tunnel opens.
Direct Access to Hospital Will Improve Traffic Flow
The new tunnel will provide direct access to the new central hospital, easing citywide traffic by allowing vehicles to bypass the Via Rápida. Albuquerque noted that this new route will help maintain smoother traffic flow through central Funchal, reducing delays and improving accessibility, particularly for emergency services.
€23 Million Project Funded by Regional Budget
The tunnel project is being financed by the Madeira Regional Government for €23 million plus VAT. In addition to the main 975-meter tunnel, the project includes a 460-meter emergency gallery that will connect to Rua do Arieiro. Albuquerque also mentioned that the remaining tunnels in the larger infrastructure project would be included in the ongoing renegotiations of the concession with Via Litoral, the region's road management company.
Tunnel Covers Most of the Distance
The tunnel will cover approximately 80% of the 1,222-meter distance between the Quebradas junction and the Amparo roundabout, with additional infrastructure, such as new roundabouts, further improving traffic flow. The tunnel in particular aims to reduce traffic on the Via Rápida.
Sources:
Diário de NotĂcias da Madeira
Jornal da Madeira
RTP Madeira
Image: Generic Concept, (Symbol)
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