Over One Million Euros Invested in Restoring Promenade That Connects Funchal With Câmara de Lobos
The popular seaside path between Praia Formosa and Socorridos, located on the west side of Funchal, has reopened after months of restoration work. The walkway, which stretches for over two kilometers along the coast and connects Funchal with Câmara de Lobos, was repaired for costs exceeding one million euros.
After already having been closed from January until May 2024, the Promenade closed again in September 2024. According to officials, the reopening faced major delays due to harsh winter weather.
It is said that the first phase of the repairs is now complete, and the public can once again use the pedestrian route that connects the municipalities of Funchal and Câmara de Lobos. Implying this is only the start and that there are more phases.
Automatic Counters to Track Public Use Introduced
One of the main updates is the addition of an automatic monitoring system. Installed along the promenade, these counters will collect information on how often and when the space is used. According to the Regional Secretariat for Equipment and Infrastructure, this data will help improve the way the area is managed.
It is said that by understanding how many people use the promenade and at what times, maintenance crews can be scheduled more efficiently. This will also help authorities plan future improvements more effectively and make better use of public funds.
The promenade that connects Praia Formosa to Socorridos, with over two kilometers of pedestrian walkway, is now open again following the completion of the first phase of the renovation project, which began in September 2024. The delay was due to "adverse weather conditions during the winter months."
Focus on Safety and Structure Maintenance to “Slow Down the Wear“ of the Walkway
The project included repairs to several sections of the walkway that were in poor condition. Specialized companies worked on damaged support structures, including beams and pillars. The goal was to slow down the wear of the walkway and improve safety for daily users.
Élia Ribeiro, chair of the board at Sociedade Metropolitana de Desenvolvimento, emphasized the need to keep the space safe, given the high number of people who use the area for exercise and walking along the waterfront.
When Will the Promenade Close Again, and for How Long?
Since the most recent reopening only completes the “first phase” of the project, the question arises as to how many phases are planned and when the next closure will happen to proceed with the next phase.
Also, if the first phase started in September 2024, what phase did the previous months-long closure from (January to May 2024) of the Funchal-Camara de Lobos Passeio Público Marítimo apply to?
The lack of clear communication has left regular users with questions. Residents and visitors alike hope the city will be more transparent about future work, as changes to access affect a large number of people.
Source: Diário de Notícias da Madeira
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