Enhancements to TF-1 South Motorway in Tenerife to Alleviate Traffic Congestion

Significant advancements have been made regarding the construction aimed at alleviating traffic congestion on the TF-1 motorway in Tenerife.

On November 5, the Department of Public Works of the Canary Islands Government announced that the project to add a third lane to the TF-1 between San Miguel de Abona and Adeje has received final approval.

Details of the Construction Project

This initiative encompasses not only the addition of a third lane but also the remodelling of key interchanges at Parque de la Reina, Guaza, Los Cristianos, and Las Américas. Additionally, it will provide direct access to the Hospital del Sur, located in El Mojón. The total investment for this project is estimated at €175.4 million, with an expected completion time of 42 months.

The new lane is anticipated to significantly enhance vehicle capacity at one of the most congested sections of the motorway, which is crucial for traffic flow on the island.

Impact on Traffic and Safety

The addition of the third lane is expected to have a substantial impact on one of Tenerife’s primary traffic arteries. The Department of Public Works has indicated that this development will improve road capacity, facilitate better traffic flow, and enhance overall road safety in one of the busiest areas of the Canary Islands.

This specific section of the motorway runs from Oroteanda (San Miguel de Abona) to Las Américas (Arona and a portion of Adeje). The regional government has classified this project as a strategic intervention, responding to the ongoing increase in traffic in the southern region of the island.

Moreover, the project aims to reduce travel times, improve connectivity between urban and tourist areas, and bolster logistical capabilities along this vital traffic route, as noted by Rosana Melián, the director-general of Road Infrastructure.

Compliance with Technical and Environmental Standards

The project, developed by the joint venture of Fhecor Ingenieros Consultores and Trazas Ingeniería, has successfully met all necessary technical and environmental requirements as confirmed by the Department of Public Works.

Construction will commence just after the Oroteanda interchange at kilometer point 64+000 and will extend beyond the Las Américas interchange to kilometer point 73+760. The goal is to establish a third lane in each direction, alongside improvements to the aforementioned interchanges.

Additionally, the project will feature an expansion to two separate carriageways, each with two lanes, leading to the Hospital del Sur (TF-28), thereby allowing direct access from the TF-1.

Part of a Broader Mobility Strategy

This construction is a key component of the Sustainable Mobility Plan (Pimsit) of Tenerife, which is currently in the final approval stages by the Cabildo of Tenerife. This plan aims to tackle traffic congestion on the island with a vision for 2035, promoting the southern train and various road expansions.

The Sustainable Mobility Plan focuses on enhancing existing transportation options, such as buses and the tram. It includes a significant investment of €1.898 billion for road expansions and the establishment of park-and-ride facilities to reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the roads.

Addressing Congestion Challenges

The initiative to add a third lane to the TF-1 addresses a widespread issue of congestion, primarily due to high traffic volumes and inadequate capacity at critical interchanges serving densely populated areas. Frequent traffic jams are reported at Guaza and Los Cristianos, with delays often spilling over onto the main motorway.

The Pimsit document emphasizes that enhancing the capacity of the TF-1 is essential, suggesting that improvements should also consider incorporating intelligent traffic management systems to further alleviate congestion.

Key points

• The TF-1 motorway in Tenerife is set to receive a third lane between San Miguel de Abona and Adeje.
• The project includes remodelling key interchanges and direct access to the Hospital del Sur.
• Investment for the project is estimated at €175.4 million, with a completion timeframe of 42 months.
• This initiative is part of the Sustainable Mobility Plan aimed at reducing traffic congestion by 2035.
• The project has met all necessary technical and environmental requirements.
• Traffic congestion is a significant issue on the southern motorway, particularly at Guaza and Los Cristianos.