Tenerife Cabildo Allocates €75 Million to Enhance Free Public Transport for 2023

The Tenerife Cabildo has unveiled a substantial investment of €75 million for the year 2023, aimed at maintaining and supporting free public transport services, which include both buses and trams. This financial commitment underscores the local government’s dedication to ensuring accessible transportation options for all residents and visitors on the island.

This investment constitutes 58% of the total projected expenditure of €130 million necessary for sustaining these vital services. The final amount contributed by the Cabildo is dependent on expected funding from the Spanish Government, which is anticipated to reach €37 million. This collaborative funding model highlights the importance of both local and national support in facilitating public transport initiatives.

Financial Outlook for Public Transport in 2024

As the Cabildo looks to the future, the total cost for maintaining free bus and tram services in 2024 is projected to be €106 million. The Cabildo plans to allocate €64 million, which represents 60.3% of the total funding required. The State’s contribution is expected to be €42 million. Furthermore, the Government of Canary Islands has committed to providing a symbolic annual subsidy of €5 million to bolster the free transport initiative, reinforcing the collaborative effort to enhance public mobility.

Extension of Free Transport Services Until 2026

On Wednesday, the Island Government Council confirmed that the free transport initiative will be extended until 2026. This extension is projected to benefit over 80 million bus users on Titsa and approximately 25 million tram passengers on Metropolitano. The renewal of the 100% free transport titles for frequent users of the interurban public service will continue under the same conditions established since January 1, 2023, ensuring that regular commuters can continue to enjoy these essential services without financial burden.

Passenger Statistics Reflecting Popularity

Since the introduction of the free transport measure on January 1, 2023, both Metropolitano and Titsa have collectively recorded an impressive total of 200 million passengers. This remarkable figure illustrates the overwhelming success and acceptance of the initiative among the public, highlighting the critical role that free transport plays in the daily lives of residents and tourists alike.

Annual Funding Dynamics for the Canary Islands

It is crucial to recognize that the Spanish Government has been consistently providing €80 million each year to support public transport across all of the Canary Islands. At the inception of this program, bus services recorded 43 million users, while the tram system in the Metropolitan Area had 15 million users. In light of these statistics, both Tenerife and Gran Canaria are advocating for a review and potential increase in the subsidy amount, emphasizing the need for enhanced funding to meet the growing demand for public transport services.

Legislative Support for Free Transport Initiatives

The free transport initiative is set to remain in effect from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026, pending the decisions of the Council of Ministers. The Cabildo is advancing this initiative following the approval of the Sustainable Mobility Law last November. This law acknowledges the unique insular situation of the Canary Islands and aligns with the Economic and Fiscal Regime, which mandates assistance for establishing a 100% discount on public transport subscriptions and multi-journey tickets. This legislative framework is pivotal in ensuring the long-term sustainability of free transport services.

Commitment to Accessible Transportation

The ongoing commitment to providing free public transport is not merely a financial decision; it embodies a broader realization of the right to accessible transportation for all residents and visitors in Tenerife. By investing in public transport, the Cabildo aims to enhance mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainable travel options, ultimately contributing to a greener and more connected community.

Key points

• The Tenerife Cabildo has allocated €75 million for free public transport in 2023.
• This funding covers 58% of the total cost of €130 million.
• In 2024, the projected cost for free transport is €106 million.
• The Cabildo will contribute €64 million, while the State is expected to provide €42 million.
• The free transport measure will be extended until 2026.
• Since January 1, 2023, there have been 200 million passengers on Metropolitano and Titsa.
• The Spanish Government provides €80 million annually for public transport across the Canary Islands.