Tenerife President to Finalize Express Tow Service in Madrid

Rosa Dávila, president of the Tenerife Island Council, announced on Tuesday that she will travel to Madrid. Her goal is to meet with Pere Navarro, the Director General of Traffic, to finalize plans for an 'express tow truck' service on the island's two main motorways.

During a press conference where she discussed plans for 2025, Dávila mentioned that she has already met twice in Madrid with officials from the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT). She explained that their approval is still needed, as a specific 'directive' from the department is required to move forward.

The president acknowledged a good working relationship with DGT directors. She noted that the delay in starting this service was partly due to a change in provincial leadership. However, she added, "decisions are made in Madrid, and perhaps we will have to go again to explain how important this is for Tenerife."

Dávila clarified that the delay isn't because the Cabildo (the Island Council) is unwilling or due to any budget issues.

Dávila also called the upcoming tender for a third lane on the TF-5 motorway between Guamasa and Los Rodeos a "Christmas present." This project, costing 66 million euros, will include upgrades at junctions with new roundabouts. These changes could lead to new traffic arrangements designed to improve flow.

She explained that this project is a revival of plans from the 2015-19 government term. It has been given priority over a more extensive third lane that would reach La Orotava. Looking ahead, she believes the TF-5's third lane will likely be built in stages, starting with the uphill section.

However, Dávila stressed that the focus shouldn't only be on building new infrastructure. Other mobility solutions are also important, such as the staggered timetables at the University of La Laguna, which have already helped reduce rush-hour congestion.

Lope Afonso, the vice-president of the Cabildo, added that a third lane in the downhill direction is "essential." He believes it will boost business productivity and make it easier for workers to get around. Once that goal is met, other steps like changing timetables could be introduced.

Finally, regarding the Padre Anchieta pedestrian ring, the president confirmed that it is still on track to be fully open by the end of March 2026. She also announced that a complete renovation of the La Laguna Interchange will begin next year.