Focus on Public Transport and Peripheral Parking
The Partido Socialista (PS) candidate for Funchal’s city hall, Rui Caetano, announced a set of proposals aimed at easing traffic congestion in the city. Among the main ideas are restrictions on rent-a-car vehicles in specific streets during peak hours, improvements in public transport, and the creation of parking areas on the outskirts of the city.
We all hear it – even the city council admits – there are too many rental cars circulating through the main streets of our city
Rui Caetano, Diário de Notícias da Madeira
Speaking at a press conference held in Praça do Município, Caetano criticized current traffic conditions, calling them “chaotic,” and promised a different approach. His proposal includes time-based limits for rental vehicles in key areas, especially during rush hours.
Opposition to Central Parking Project
The PS candidate also strongly opposed a previously suggested plan by the current city administration to build a 1,500-space parking garage in the center of Funchal. Caetano described the idea as “completely absurd,” arguing that it would only increase vehicle density in the already overburdened city center.
Instead, his campaign wants to encourage the use of peripheral car parks connected to efficient public transport lines. The goal is to reduce traffic without excluding residents or visitors from accessing the city. A study will be carried out to identify strategic areas for the development or expansion of such facilities.
Tourism Is Not the Problem, Traffic Management Is
Tourism is not seen as the problem, according to Caetano. Rather, he believes the issue lies in poor traffic management and the lack of planning around mobility.
This is not about being against tourists – on the contrary. It’s about finding balance
Rui Caetano, Diário de Notícias da Madeira
The proposed rent-a-car restrictions would be coordinated with rental companies, hotels, and travel operators to ensure visitors are informed in advance. Alternative transportation options would be promoted to support these changes. Still, questions remain about how tourists will react and whether such restrictions could affect local businesses that depend on tourism.
Call for Municipal Police and Criticism of Current Administration
In addition to mobility measures, the Socialist candidate advocated for the creation of a dedicated Municipal Police force in Funchal. He also called for greater cooperation with the national PSP to improve enforcement and help maintain public order in the city.
Finally, Caetano criticized the current city government, led by PSD/CDS, for what he called an imbalanced focus on tax collection over problem-solving. He accused them of collecting more than €52 million in taxes in 2024 without addressing what he sees as the city’s core challenges
Source: Diário de Notícias da Madeira
Care for a share?
Comments