Local authorities in Portugal enhance public service access

Local authorities in Portugal have implemented new initiatives to improve public service accessibility and community engagement.

In the Santo António parish, the local council held an ‘open presidency’ meeting in the Três Paus area of Viana. Led by Marcelo Gouveia, the session allowed residents to directly voice concerns regarding public transport frequency, sanitation, street cleaning, and parking availability. Discussions also focused on improving accessibility for individuals with reduced mobility.

Meanwhile, the municipality of Vila Viçosa has opened two new ‘Espaços Cidadão’ (Citizen Spaces) located in the municipal offices and in Pardais. These centers provide assisted digital service points to help citizens navigate public administration platforms. Funded by the Alentejo 2030 program and the European Regional Development Fund (FEDER), the project also included infrastructure upgrades to improve building accessibility for people with limited mobility.