Barcelona City Council's Government Commission has definitively approved a €1.5 million remodelling project for Plaça d'Adrià and its surrounding intersection in the Sarrià, Sant Gervasi district. Work on the significant urban transformation will begin in July and will last seven months.

The project focuses on prioritising pedestrians and enhancing public space. It will eliminate lateral roads around the square, creating a single platform for foot traffic. Officials will restrict vehicle access to emergency and municipal services only.

Maria Eugènia Gay, District Councillor for Sarrià, Sant Gervasi, emphasised the project's resident-centric approach. She stated, "The transformation of Plaça d'Adrià represents a way of understanding the city that puts people at the centre, dignifies public space, and reinforces the quality of life in neighbourhoods." Councillor Gay added, "We are committed to a Barcelona that reclaims space for coexistence, gains accessibility, and builds friendlier, greener, and more cohesive environments."

The remodelling extends to the intersection of Santaló, Camp, and Vallmajor streets, reaching Ravella Street. This area, a key thoroughfare in Sarrià, Sant Gervasi, serves a diverse community of residents and local businesses. The district is known for its green spaces and village-like feel.

The plan includes widening pavements between Vallmajor and Camp streets. This aims to improve general accessibility for pedestrians and enhance the public areas in front of local shops. The central part of Plaça d'Adrià will retain its traditional gravel surface.

Enhancing Green Spaces and Accessibility

The project significantly increases green infrastructure within the square. It involves planting four new trees on the pavements between Santaló and Vallmajor streets. Additionally, 18 new trees will be introduced within the main square area.

Workers will enlarge existing tree pits to support the growth of both new and existing vegetation. New shrubbery will also be planted. The project will install a new pedestrian crossing with traffic lights at the corner with Santaló Street. This will improve safety for those crossing the busy intersection. A new flower stall will also be added, contributing to the square's aesthetic and commercial appeal.

Reorganising Urban Infrastructure

The project also addresses urban infrastructure and services. Crews will relocate waste containers and loading/unloading bays to Santaló Street. Motorcycle parking spaces will move to Vallmajor and Santaló streets. These new motorcycle parking areas will occupy existing blue and green zone car parking spaces.

Furthermore, the remodelling includes the restoration of the central sculpture. This artwork pays homage to Manuel Carrasco i Formiguera, a prominent Catalan politician. The restoration involves cleaning and enhancing the piece. It also includes recovering its unique periscope vision system. Crews will also restore the ornamental fountain and improve its internal system.

With the definitive approval now secured, residents can expect construction work to commence in July. The seven-month timeline suggests completion by early 2025. This major investment aims to create a more pedestrian-friendly and aesthetically pleasing public space. It will significantly benefit the local community in Sarrià, Sant Gervasi.

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Originally published by Barcelona City Council Press Room. Read original article.