Tenerife Government Defends Mobility Strategy Amid Opposition Criticism
Tenerife’s government defended its progress on mobility and housing during the State of the Island debate, facing criticism from opposition parties over the effectiveness of its infrastructure and social policies.
At the recent State of the Island debate, Tenerife’s government, led by President Rosa Dávila, presented a progress report centered on transforming the island’s mobility. Dávila defended the administration’s work since 2023, citing data that shows a 10% to 12% improvement in travel times on the TF-5 highway between Los Realejos and the metropolitan area.
The government’s strategy focuses on encouraging residents to switch from private cars to public transport. Official figures show that the bus and tram network has gained over 120,000 new passengers compared to three years ago. Looking ahead, the Council has set a goal to attract another 150,000 users over the next decade. To achieve this, the administration has outlined a plan featuring 100 specific actions and a 5-billion-euro investment to modernize roads, rail networks, and transport hubs, while also integrating artificial intelligence to better manage traffic.
The opposition, however, challenged these claims, arguing that the government’s data does not reflect the daily struggles of residents. Aaron Afonso of the Socialist Group criticized the administration for failing to meet electoral promises, specifically regarding housing and the commitment to create 2,800 public residential units. Meanwhile, Vox representative Ana Salazar called for a more pragmatic approach, warning that while the island has potential, structural issues still require more rigorous management.
In response, spokespersons for Coalición Canaria and the Partido Popular, José Miguel Ruano and Lope Afonso, supported the president’s vision. The Partido Popular highlighted recent shifts in housing policy, including the Youth Rental Bonus, the "Activa Suelo" and "Activa Vivienda" programs, and a proposal for the Council to act as a guarantor to help young people buy their first homes. The debate underscored the ongoing political tension in Tenerife, where infrastructure and housing access remain the primary points of contention.