Funchal officials question new bus corridors and traffic changes

Political figures and local representatives in Funchal are questioning the implementation of new traffic changes, specifically the creation of dedicated bus corridors on Rua 5 de Outubro, Rua 31 de Janeiro, and Rua do Visconde de Anadia.

Iniciativa Liberal (IL) deputy Rosie Bayntun expressed concerns that while improving public transport is a valid goal, the current plan lacks a rigorous assessment of its impact on vehicle circulation, local commerce, and loading/unloading operations. The party questions whether these changes will improve bus mobility or simply shift congestion to other parts of the city.

Independent councilman Luís Filipe Santos also called for a comprehensive evaluation of the mobility policy. He argued that urban planning should not be limited to painting lanes and changing traffic directions, but must consider the global impact on the city. He specifically raised concerns regarding the prohibition of pedestrian traffic on the Ponte do Pelourinho and the removal of parking on Rua da Infância, urging the council to monitor results through objective indicators over the coming months.