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Cibeles and Puerta de Alcalá will lose lanes from 17 July
Driving between Cibeles and Puerta de Alcalá will be more difficult for much of the summer. From 17 July, Calle de Alcalá will be reduced to two lanes in each direction along this section, a measure that may cause tailbacks on one of the busiest approaches to central Madrid.
The first change will come on the uphill carriageway, where the lane closest to the central reservation will be closed from Friday the 17th. The same restriction will apply on the downhill carriageway from Monday 20 July, thus completing the reduction in capacity in both directions.
The closures will allow work to progress on the construction of the future central promenade planned between Plaza de Cibeles and Puerta de Alcalá. The works are now entering a new phase that requires part of the carriageway to be occupied for several weeks.
The City Council has chosen July and August to concentrate the work, taking advantage of the fact that traffic usually decreases during the holidays. The plan is to keep two lanes open in each direction throughout the summer and restore normal traffic in September.
Even so, the narrowing may particularly affect peak hours and vehicles crossing the centre to head towards the Salamanca neighbourhood, Retiro or the Gran Vía area. Delays may also occur on nearby streets used as alternatives.
The municipal recommendation is to avoid private cars whenever possible and use public transport. Metro and bus will be the most direct options for getting around an area where numerous urban routes and tourist itineraries also converge.
The affected stretch is one of the capital’s most recognisable points and a usual thoroughfare for celebrations, demonstrations and major events. Those who have to pass through the area in the coming weeks should allow extra travel time and check traffic conditions before leaving.