So far, a total of 10,998 vehicles of Barceloneta residents and workers have received accreditations that will allow them to move around the neighborhood during the celebration of the America’s Cup Sailing 2024. This event, which will take place between August 22 and the end of October, will impose traffic restrictions in the area, especially on competition days, to avoid crowds.
America’s Cup Sailing Accreditations
The accreditations issued are divided into two main categories: one that allows circulation and parking, and the other that only allows circulation and disembarkation of passengers. The first category is intended for vehicles with guaranteed parking in the area, either in green areas reserved for residents or in rented or purchased parking spaces. The second category is intended for those who live or work in Barceloneta but do not have a parking space. These vehicles will be able to access the restricted area to drop off their passengers, but must leave immediately afterwards.
Of the nearly 11,000 accreditations issued, 2,337 were processed directly at the office located at the Barceloneta Civic Center until October 31. Of these, 1,890 are for vehicles with parking spaces and 447 for vehicles that can only access to disembark passengers. In addition, 6,554 accreditations were mailed to B parking lot subscribers and residents of zone 9, who can use on-street parking (AREA). The Barcelona Port Authority (APB) also issued 2,107 accreditations, of which 70 are for one-time, single-day access.
Public transportation
The traffic restrictions will not affect public transport, including buses and cabs, which will be able to access the area without problems. In addition, those traveling by foot, bicycle, motorcycle or personal mobility vehicles, as well as essential and port services, will be exempt from the restrictions. Urban distribution of goods (DUM) will also be able to be carried out without restrictions. The authorities have stressed the importance of encouraging the use of public transport and bicycles during the event, especially for Barceloneta residents and workers.
The America’s Cup 2024 is a worldwide event with a significant impact in economic, sporting and media terms. For this reason, the authorities have drawn up a mobility plan that provides for certain traffic restrictions for access to Barcelona’s seafront, in the area between Sant Sebastià and Bogatell beaches, during the days of the competition. This plan, developed jointly by the City Council and the Port of Barcelona, ensures that residents and essential services can continue with their daily lives, even in the event of traffic closures by the Guardia Urbana.
Guaranteed access
Residents’ access to the neighborhood will always be guaranteed, allowing them to reach their parking spaces. Those without a parking space will be able to enter the area to drop off their passengers, but will have to leave immediately. In the Port Vell area, special accreditation will be required for shopkeepers, fishermen and other workers to access their workplaces, as long as they have parking space inside.
During the competition days, a high number of visitors is expected, especially in October, when the finals will take place. In addition, it is planned that there will be no competition during the Fiestas de la Mercè, to avoid coinciding with other crowded events. The Guardia Urbana will intensify efforts to ensure coexistence, addressing multi-recidivism, street vending and crowds.
As for transportation, nine bus lines and Metro Line 4 will be reinforced during the peak hours of the competitions, which are scheduled, barring unforeseen weather conditions, for Wednesdays, Fridays and weekends from 2 to 4 pm.
For visitors arriving by car to attend the America’s Cup sailing competitions, two large parking areas will be set up at strategic points in the city. One of the parking areas will be located in the Fòrum area, near the Levante beach, and will have 1,200 spaces available. The other will be located in Fira de Barcelona, in Hospitalet, with a capacity of 1,258 spaces. Both will be pay parking lots.
Image courtesy of https://www.americascup.com, all rights reserved.
