Uncertain Future for Bicycle Lanes in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The ambitious bicycle lane project in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is facing significant challenges, as plans to dismantle key sections of the infrastructure have been announced. This development raises questions about the future of cycling in the city and the local government’s commitment to promoting sustainable transportation.

City Council’s Controversial Infrastructure Decision

In a recent ordinary plenary session, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council revealed its intention to dismantle the bicycle lanes located on Villalba Hervás, El Pilar, and Méndez Núñez streets. This decision comes despite the fact that much of the infrastructure is already in place. However, the lanes have become effectively unusable due to a halt in operations following a legal ruling. The announcement was made in response to inquiries from Vox councillor Alejandro Santiago Gómez Rodríguez, who sought clarity on the future of the bicycle lanes after the council withdrew an appeal against a ruling from the Tribunal Superior de Justicia de Canarias (TSJC) that annulled the existing mobility ordinance.

Mobility councillor Evelyn Alonso provided further insight into the situation, explaining that while the ruling does not explicitly require the dismantling of the bicycle lane infrastructure, it does prevent any further development or enhancements. Consequently, the segments of the bicycle lane are now disconnected and inactive, leaving cyclists without a viable route in these busy areas.

Legal Challenges and Strategic Decisions

Initially, the City Council had considered appealing the TSJC’s decision to the Supreme Court. However, delays in the legal process led to a strategic withdrawal of the appeal. The council has since shifted its focus to drafting a report that had previously been missing, which has contributed to the complications surrounding the project. As the new Mobility Ordinance is currently under development, the decision to dismantle the bicycle lanes on these three heavily trafficked streets marks a significant setback for the initiative. Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez characterized this move as an opportunity to adopt a more positive outlook on the situation, despite the challenges ahead.

Repurposing Bicycle Lane Areas for Community Needs

In light of the dismantling of the bicycle lanes, the areas previously designated for cycling will now be repurposed for other uses. The council has indicated that these spaces can be utilized for loading and unloading by local businesses, as well as designated parking from 18:00 to 08:00. This change aims to address the immediate needs of residents and shopkeepers in the area, as explained by councillor Alonso. The council is committed to ensuring that the public space remains functional and beneficial for the community.

As for the remaining sections of the bicycle lane that are not being dismantled, councillor Alonso noted that the council will evaluate potential uses based on feedback from local residents and businesses. This approach aims to create a collaborative environment where the community’s needs are prioritized, and the public space can be adapted accordingly.

Looking Ahead: Future Developments in Mobility

At present, the dismantled segments of the bicycle lanes will not be utilized for their original purpose, leaving cyclists and advocates for sustainable transportation concerned about the future of cycling infrastructure in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The council has committed to reviewing the situation as they progress with the new Mobility Ordinance, which is expected to shape the future of transportation in the city.

As the council moves forward, there is a pressing need to engage with the community to gather insights and suggestions on how to best utilize the segregated bicycle lane areas. The outcome of this process will be crucial in determining whether the city can reclaim its commitment to promoting cycling as a viable and safe mode of transportation.

Key points

• The Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council plans to dismantle bicycle lanes on Villalba Hervás, El Pilar, and Méndez Núñez streets.
• This decision follows a halt in operations due to a ruling from the TSJC that annulled the existing mobility ordinance.
• Mobility councillor Evelyn Alonso stated that the ruling prevents further work but does not require dismantling the infrastructure.
• The council withdrew its appeal against the TSJC ruling, focusing instead on drafting a missing report.
• Temporary uses for the dismantled areas include loading/unloading for businesses and parking during specific hours.
• The council will assess future uses for remaining bicycle lane sections based on community feedback.