BarcelonaS L9 Metro: A Step Closer to Completion
The long-awaited expansion of Barcelona’s L9 metro line is steadily progressing, with the Catalan government aiming to open a new section before the entire project is finished. After a decade of stagnation, the tunnel boring machine, a silent giant beneath the city, has carved out a new section and reached Mandri last summer. While the project is far from complete,this partial opening marks a significant milestone.
Scheduled for late 2027 or early 2028, this initial phase will connect the Sagrera and Guinardó neighborhoods, adding four new stations: Sagrera-TAV, La Sagrera, Plaça de Maragall, and Guinardó-Hospital de Sant Pau. This 3.6 kilometer stretch will provide immediate benefits to residents, allowing them to bypass the need to wait for the entire line’s completion, which is projected for 2030.The underground tunnel for this section is already finished,and station construction is nearing completion,with only minor finishing touches remaining. Transports Metropolitans de Catalunya (TMB), the operator of Barcelona’s metro network, views this partial opening as a positive step. TMB President Xavier Flores emphasized the benefits of making sections operational as they are completed, allowing residents to enjoy the new service sooner.
This partial opening also plays a crucial role in the L9’s overall configuration. Currently, lines 9 and 10 share a tunnel that doesn’t actually belong to them, utilizing a passage intended for the future connection of the L4 with Sagrera. The extension to Guinardó will reposition the L9 on its designated tracks, freeing up space for the advancement of the L4 project, which was recently revived with the awarding of the construction project design contract.
Meanwhile, the tunnel boring machine, currently paused at Mandri, is slated to resume drilling next summer. The machine’s cutting wheel, responsible for excavating the tunnel, required replacement due to wear and tear. This delay, along with other setbacks, has pushed the project’s cost beyond 5 billion euros, according to a report by the Audit Office.
despite the challenges, the completion of the L9 promises significant benefits for Barcelona. As the longest metro line in Europe, it will expand the city’s public transport network, accommodating an estimated 86 million additional passengers annually. Moreover, it is indeed expected to alleviate congestion on the heavily used L1 and L5 lines.
The Long Game: Discussing Barcelona’s L9 Metro Expansion with Olympic Hero, Mireia Belmonte
Today, we’re diving deep into the world of infrastructure development and its impact on a city’s sporting landscape. Joining us is Olympic swimming gold medalist and Barcelona native, Mireia Belmonte. Mireia, thanks for lending your voice to this conversation.
Mireia: Thank you for having me. It’s great to be here!
Moderator: As you know, Barcelona’s L9 metro line expansion is expected to reach Guinardó by late 2027, offering a crucial link for commuters across the city. How notable do you think improved public transport infrastructure like this is for the athletic community?
mireia: Honestly, it’s massive. I remember spending countless hours navigating the city for training and competitions,and reliable,efficient transport was a game-changer. Imagine young athletes, up before dawn for practice, facing long, crowded commutes. This expansion will make a real difference in their lives – less travel time means more time to train, recover, and focus on their sport.
Moderator: Absolutely. The L9’s connection with the Sagrera-TAV station, a major transportation hub, is particularly noteworthy. Do you see this enhanced connectivity benefiting international events hosted in Barcelona?
Mireia: Absolutely! Barcelona has a rich history of hosting major sporting events, and smooth transportation for athletes, officials, and spectators is vital. A well-connected metro system like the expanded L9 will definitely be a huge asset for future bids for international competitions, making the city even more accessible and attractive.
Moderator: That’s a great point, Mireia.Now, the project hasn’t been without its challenges – budget overruns and construction delays have been reported. How do you think the city should balance the need for enterprising infrastructure projects with responsible resource allocation?
Mireia: It’s a delicate balance, no doubt. Barcelona has a strong transportation vision for the future, and the L9 is a critical part of that. While I understand concerns about costs, I believe investing in public transport is investing in the city’s long-term well-being – it boosts accessibility, reduces traffic congestion, and ultimately improves quality of life for everyone, including athletes.
Moderator: Wise words, Mireia. the L9 is projected for full completion in 2030, making it Europe’s longest metro line. As a Barcelona native, what impact do you envision this having on the city’s sporting future?
Mireia:
I see a brighter future for Barcelona’s sporting landscape. Streamlined transport means easier access to training facilities, stadiums, and even outdoor recreational spaces. It encourages active lifestyles,supports local sports clubs,and attracts talent from afar. The L9 might be underground, but its impact will be felt throughout the city, both on and off the field.
Moderator: A powerful vision, Mireia.Thank you for sharing your insights and for reminding us that progress in one area often fuels success in another. We want to hear from you, our readers! How do you think improved public transport impacts your city’s sporting environment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
