The Catalan Government anticipates the extension of Barcelona’s Metro Line 4 (L4) will commence service in 2032. This extension connects La Pau to the future La Sagrera intermodal station. However, this timeline remains uncertain, dependent on budget allocation and project prioritisation.

Residents of the Verneda Alta neighbourhood, near La Sagrera, express significant concern over potential delays. They cite past experiences with the large La Sagrera station project as a reason for their apprehension.

Rubén Parada, President of the Verneda Alta Neighbourhood Association, stated, “We do not understand it and it surprises us greatly, because it is a relatively small project: almost the entire tunnel is already done.” Municipal technicians reportedly informed the association that the metro extension is not a priority compared to High-Speed Rail (AVE) and Rodalies works at La Sagrera, according to Barcelona Metro L4 Wikipedia. Parada also quipped that “La Sagrera residents are already familiar with delays,” referencing the long-running macro-station project.

Project Delays and Budget Concerns

The Department of Territory (Departament de Territori) attributed previous delays to the need for updated technical studies. These studies aim to minimise surface impact before further project processing. The drafting contract was awarded for €2 million with a 15-month deadline, which has now expired.

Officials confirmed that the project’s execution “will depend on budgetary availability.” The six-year timeframe to meet the 2032 target requires necessary economic resources secured through parliamentary budget agreements. This condition has generated unease among local community groups.

Existing Infrastructure and Remaining Work

Despite the delays, much of the infrastructure for the L4 extension is already complete. Most of the tunnel between La Pau and La Sagrera exists, currently used by L9 and L10 Nord metro lines. Additionally, civil works for two new stations, Sagrera-TAV and La Sagrera, are 100% finished.

The estimated investment for the L4 extension totals €98 million. Remaining tasks include excavating a 320-metre open-cut tunnel and constructing the new Santander station. This new station will serve the future Sector Prim neighbourhood.

Enhanced Connectivity Benefits

The extension will add three new stations beyond La Pau: Santander, Sagrera-TAV, and La Sagrera. The Santander station area anticipates industrial building demolitions in 2027 to make way for new housing. Sagrera-TAV integrates into the new macro-station, while La Sagrera station sits alongside Avenida Meridiana.

This expansion expects to capture approximately 43,700 daily trips. It will significantly reduce travel times and improve connectivity with L1, L5, L9 metro lines, Rodalies commuter trains, and High-Speed Rail services. This improved transport network aims to benefit thousands of Barcelona residents, commuters, and visitors navigating the city.

Local Community Concerns

However, residents foresee negative consequences from the broader La Sagrera development. Parada added, “The entire new La Sagrera station will be a very significant detriment to our neighbourhood. We will suffer brutal gentrification, which we are already noticing.” He also highlighted that 12,000 new residents will arrive before sufficient services are available. He noted that local health centres and other facilities already experience strain, fearing further saturation.

La Sagrera Macro-Station Development

The La Sagrera macro-station, a massive intermodal transport hub, remains under construction. Officials estimate another “six years of works” remain, though no official inauguration date exists. If the 2032 metro extension target holds, it would coincide with the macro-station’s completion.

Projected since 2010, this station represents Adif’s most ambitious railway project in Barcelona. It aims to handle over 100 million passengers annually, significantly decongesting the busy Sants station. The surrounding area will see extensive development, including new residential blocks, hotels, and other facilities. This drastic change will reshape the area’s urban landscape and impact existing communities.

The La Sagrera project has spanned over three decades since its conception, under various administrations. Its completion, including the L4 extension, hinges on consistent budgetary commitment and political prioritisation. Residents await clarity on these crucial infrastructure projects for Barcelona’s future.

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Originally published by El Periódico Barcelona. Read original article.