Tenerife Takes Bold Steps Towards Sustainable Public Transport

The Cabildo of Tenerife is making significant strides in enhancing sustainable mobility across the island. Through two major initiatives, the local government aims to improve the quality of public transport, ensuring it meets the needs of all residents and visitors alike.

Revamping Bus Stop Facilities

A comprehensive new service has been launched to maintain and conserve the island’s extensive network of 2,251 bus stops. This initiative is supported by an investment of approximately €3 million, which will enable the deployment of four specialized vehicles dedicated to the inspection, cleaning, repair, and replacement of any damaged components at these stops.

The primary objective of this service is to create a more comfortable and secure environment for all users, with a particular emphasis on the needs of older individuals and those with reduced mobility. The maintenance plan will encompass both preventive measures to avert deterioration and corrective actions to swiftly address incidents or vandalism that may occur.

Rosa Dávila, the President of the Cabildo, highlighted the significance of bus stops as essential meeting points in the daily lives of many residents. She stated that maintaining these stops is crucial not only for public service but also for preserving the dignity of users, with the aim of achieving noticeable improvements in cleanliness and accessibility.

The maintenance contract has been strategically divided into two territorial lots. The North lot, which includes 1,179 stops, has been awarded to Envera Empleo, S.L.U., while the South lot has been awarded to the Company for Efficiency and Integrated Services. This approach not only enhances service delivery but also promotes the inclusion of groups facing employment barriers, thereby fostering social responsibility.

Expansion of the TITSA Bus Fleet

In tandem with the enhancements to bus stop infrastructure, the Cabildo has confirmed the acquisition of 70 new intercity buses, investing €28.2 million as part of the Modernisation and Reinforcement Plan for 2024–2026. This purchase is part of a broader strategy that includes a previous acquisition of 247 buses, bringing the total investment in the fleet to an impressive €125 million.

Among the new buses, eight will be fully electric, marking a significant milestone as the first intercity electric buses in the Canary Islands. Additionally, thirteen of the new buses will be double-decker models, designed to accommodate up to 93 passengers, specifically tailored for high-demand routes. All new vehicles will be equipped with advanced energy efficiency systems, ensuring they are environmentally friendly, as well as universal accessibility features and digital connectivity options, including USB ports and smart climate control.

Moreover, an additional 25 buses are currently in the bidding process, with contracts expected to be awarded by the end of the year. This will increase the total number of new vehicles to 95 by 2026 and 2027, further enhancing the public transport network.

Public Transport Growth and Future Prospects

The public transport system in Tenerife is on track to serve over 86 million passengers by the end of 2025, reflecting a significant increase in demand. Currently, the TITSA network serves 67.6 million users, while the tram system accommodates 19.1 million passengers. These impressive figures underscore the effectiveness of public transport as a viable alternative to private vehicles, a result of extensive planning and investment in the bus network.

TITSA, the public transport company operated by the Cabildo, employs over 2,180 staff members, including 1,670 drivers. The company operates 667 active vehicles across a vast network of more than 3,800 stops and 185 lines, covering over 39 million kilometers annually. This extensive network ensures seamless connectivity between urban, rural, and tourist areas, making public transport a convenient option for all.

Key points

• The Cabildo of Tenerife is investing in sustainable mobility through bus stop maintenance and fleet expansion.
• A €3 million investment will enhance the maintenance of 2,251 bus stops.
• 70 new intercity buses have been purchased, including eight fully electric models.
• The total investment in the bus fleet amounts to €125 million.
• Public transport is expected to serve over 86 million passengers by 2025.
• TITSA operates over 3,800 stops and 185 lines, covering more than 39 million kilometers annually.