The A-27, an important road connecting Tarragona and Lleida, has completed its final stretch with the inauguration of the Lilla tunnel and the road linking Valls and Montblanc.
This five-kilometer-long route includes the Lilla Tunnel, an impressive 1.5-kilometer-long tunnel. The opening of this road represents a significant improvement in connectivity between the Camp de Tarragona and the counties of Tarragona and Lleida.
Construction work on this section of road, which had a cost of 157 million euros, had begun in 2008 and had faced several delays over the years.
Although the work was long awaited because of its potential to reduce travel time, the connection between the Lilla tunnel and the AP-2 freeway is still pending. This means that trucks carrying dangerous goods will continue to use the N-240.
The inauguration of this section of the A-27 and the Lilla tunnel took place at an event attended by the Minister of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, Raquel Sánchez, who highlighted the importance of this improvement for the region’s economy.
The advantages of the Lilla tunnel (A-27)
This new section connects the north of Valls with the south of Montblanc, saving drivers approximately five minutes in their travel time.
The Lilla tunnel, which is part of this section, is 1,500 meters long and has two tubes, one for each direction, and six safety galleries for emergency situations. The tunnel is expected to handle daily traffic of about 25,000 vehicles.
The connection of the A-27 and the AP-2 is still pending and is a concern for the city of Montblanc. This link is expected to be completed within the next three years, although the mayor of Montblanc, Oriol Pallissó, has expressed his concern about the traffic problems that may arise until this connection is made.
Road investments in Catalonia are a priority
Investment in infrastructure in Catalonia is a priority for the government and the inauguration of the A-27 and the Lilla tunnel is an example of its commitment to the region. In addition, Minister Raquel Sánchez announced that the B-40 between Olesa and Viladecavalls in Barcelona will be operational before December 15.
In recent years, 829 million euros have been invested in the state road network in Catalonia, more than 50% of which have been allocated to the improvement and adaptation of roads.
The completion of this section of the A-27 is an important milestone for the region. However, full connection to the AP-2 remains a priority to address outstanding traffic issues.
