Traffic Chaos as Guiniguada Viaduct Closure Takes Effect
Traffic heading south on the Guiniguada Viaduct in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is experiencing significant delays following its closure for maintenance. The closure, expected to last 14 days, has already led to several hours of congestion, primarily affecting vehicles diverted to the nearby Julio Luengo tunnel.
This traffic turmoil comes just a week after similar disruptions occurred due to roadwork on the viaduct in the opposite direction. Although the initial traffic issues eased after the early completion of previous works, this latest closure has caused even greater delays.
Augusto Hidalgo, the Vice President of the Cabildo of Gran Canaria, acknowledged that the closure was anticipated to funnel more traffic into the Julio Luengo tunnel, particularly from the GC-2 and other major routes. He noted that the southbound work is larger in scale than previous ones and has created confusion for drivers, adding to the congestion.
In response, authorities plan to enhance traffic light frequency at key junctions using electronic systems to adapt to changing traffic conditions. However, extending waiting times in this area may lead to further delays for traffic heading north along Avenida Marítima.
Nearby areas such as Mesa y López are also struggling with increased traffic. The complete closure of the viaduct will be in effect round the clock until 23 August.
Alternative Routes
The Cabildo has outlined several alternative routes to help mitigate the disruption. One key detour will link Avenida Pintor Felo Monzón with Avenida Juan Carlos I and the Julio Luengo tunnel. Drivers can also access the tunnel from the La Ballena tunnels (GC-23) and continue along Avenida Marítima to reach GC-1.
These measures aim to ensure connectivity across the city while the viaduct remains closed.
Ongoing Works
On Sunday night, the Cabildo started waterproofing work on the southbound viaduct after reopening the northbound lane ahead of schedule. The project, managed by Lopesan Asfaltos y Construcciones, will run until 23 August.
The waterproofing involves both sections of the viaduct, covering over 18,000 square metres, and is being carried out more quickly than usual due to time constraints associated with this type of work.
The project is part of a larger initiative to resurface 11 kilometres of the Las Palmas ring road, amounting to €18.7 million. The specific waterproofing works have a budget of €2.2 million and are being undertaken mainly at night to minimise disruption.
Advice for Drivers
As the total closure of the southbound viaduct continues, the Cabildo of Gran Canaria advises drivers to plan their journeys in advance, consider alternative routes, and avoid affected areas if possible. They also encourage the use of public transport during the maintenance period to alleviate pressure on alternative routes and reduce congestion.
