This urban development project, covering 23,900 square meters of public space, primarily seeks to redevelop the area, facilitate pedestrian movement, and eliminate the “border effect” currently separating the Puente de Vallecas and Retiro districts. Works are expected to commence in September and continue until the summer of 2028.
“"We present 'Vallecas Abierto', the ambitious and realistic project that will transform and connect the area around Puente de Vallecas. We improve the quality of life for residents, gaining space for pedestrians, improving accessibility and creating a greener, safer environment and…"
The intervention, carried out by the Department of Public Works and Equipment and Madrid Calle 30, will reclaim 3,770 square meters of surface area for pedestrians. It includes a comprehensive remodeling of pedestrian zones beneath the M-30 bridge and its immediate surroundings, aiming to provide universal accessibility and improve transversal and longitudinal connections between the two districts.
Currently, the space under the bridge is fragmented, with limited pedestrian continuity and only two pedestrian crossings, creating a barrier. The project will introduce five new pedestrian crossings, reorganize bus bays, and expand the recreational space beneath the infrastructure. The southern end will house the bus interchange, while the central area will be adapted to enhance its recreational character.
In addition to the improvements under the bridge, Monte Oliveti Street in the Puente de Vallecas side will be pedestrianized, sidewalks will be widened, and landscaped areas with trees will be installed. On the Retiro side, efforts will focus on the green area boulevard of Martin Luther King, improving connectivity and local access.
The project also includes significant environmental enhancements, with the planting of 48 trees, over 10,000 shrubs, and climbing plants on pillars, as well as the installation of vertical gardens on the bridge ramps, covering approximately 750 square meters. These will be the third vertical gardens promoted by Madrid Calle 30.
Pavement renovation, with an investment of 6.5 million euros for works under the bridge, will use sound-absorbing materials to reduce rolling noise. An acoustic reduction of two to five decibels is estimated. The design of 'Vallecas Abierto' will incorporate historical references to the ancient Abroñigal stream, evoking its path through green bands and a chromatic design on pillars and porticos.
