Barcelona City Council has commenced work on a pioneering infrastructure project in the Montbau neighbourhood: the installation of three mechanical ramps on Poesía Street. This initiative aims to resolve longstanding accessibility issues for residents who contend with a sustained 10% gradient daily.
This development marks a significant shift in the city’s approach to urban mobility in mountainous districts. However, while elevators and escalators have traditionally been the preferred solutions for navigating steep terrain, this is the first time the municipality has opted for surface-level mechanical ramps. Previously, this technology was restricted to underground locations such as the Diagonal Metro station.
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Mechanical Ramps on Poesía Street: A €7.3 Million Investment
First Deputy Mayor Laia Bonet announced the start of the works on Monday, describing the project as ‘long-awaited’. She emphasised that the infrastructure will allow residents to overcome the street’s challenging elevation, significantly improving quality of life in the area.
The project represents a substantial investment of €7.3 million. The construction phase is scheduled to last 18 months. Therefore, the new infrastructure should be fully operational before the summer of 2027. The ramps, which will be one metre wide, are designed specifically for uphill travel. They will be situated on the Besòs side of the street, spanning the section between Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron and Carrer de Vayreda.
Addressing Local Environmental Challenges
The location of the ramps near the Montbau Gardens presents a unique maintenance challenge: the abundance of white pine trees. Falling pine needles pose a risk to the mechanical components of the ramps. To mitigate this, the City Council plans to install protective coverings over the infrastructure.
However, this protective measure will be executed in a subsequent phase. The tender and drafting for the covering project are expected to take place this year. Approval is slated for 2027 and execution in 2028, ensuring the long-term functionality of the ramps.
Comprehensive Urban Renewal
Beyond the installation of the ramps, the project encompasses a broader urban renewal plan for Poesía Street. The area currently suffers from narrow sidewalks and deteriorated paving, which further complicates mobility.
The planned improvements include:
- Sidewalk Expansion and Repair: Widening and repairing pavements on both the Besòs and Llobregat sides along the entire street.
- Lighting and Utilities: Complete renewal of the street lighting system and maintenance work on approximately 5,500 square metres of the sewer network.
- Greenery: Maintenance of existing trees and the planting of four new specimens to increase shade.
- Pedestrian Safety: Installation of double handrails on the stairs at the lower end of the street to assist pedestrians.
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