Park Güell, one of Barcelona’s most iconic architectural gems, is at a crucial moment of transformation. With an impressive budget of nearly 39 million euros e armarked for improvements between 2023 and 2027, the park is set to dazzle even more. But it’s not just about beautifying the park; the focus is on minimizing the impact of tourism on neighborhood residents. This strategic plan ranges from infrastructure renovation to initiatives to protect local identity.
An ambitious strategic plan
Since regulated access was implemented in 2013, Park Güell has been welcoming 4.4 million visitors annually. Thus, its revenues have enabled the implementation of a visionary strategic plan that was developed in 2017. This plan consists of 203 measures, 59 % of which are already realized. The remaining measures are either being activated or are waiting to be initiated. This comprehensive approach allows a respectful evolution with the environment and the neighbors.
Investments inside the park
The heart of the renovation project focuses on the interior of the park. With an investment of 13.7 million euros, it is intended to improve several aspects. The lighting will be upgraded to ensure a more welcoming and safer environment. Work will also be carried out on the rainwater harvesting and drainage system, optimizing the irrigation system.
In addition, the protection of the park’s biodiversity is paramount, so a specific budget has been allocated for the maintenance of the greenery. But that is not all. The expropriation of Casa Trias and the construction of a new technical center, which will include a multipurpose space for the neighborhood, are part of an investment of 10.4 million euros in equipment.
The acquisition of La Miranda is also an important milestone. This building will be ceded to the entity that has been organizing activities in the space for two decades, thus strengthening the community bond and neighborhood use of Park Güell.
Improved environments and accessibility
The areas surrounding Park Güell will also receive considerable attention. With 13.7 million euros allocated to these renovations, the aim is to improve pavements, sidewalks and other structural elements. The Font del Carbó gardens will see their original splendor restored, promoting the cross-connection of the Salut neighborhood.
In addition, major renovations to the streets of Torrent del Remei and Farigola, located in the Coll neighborhood, will facilitate greater accessibility thanks to the widening of sidewalks. Other streets, such as Albert Llanas and Miquel dels Sants Oliver, will also receive accessibility improvements, positively transforming the daily experience of neighborhood residents.
Initiatives for the neighborhood and commercial fabric
Park Güell, being part of the strategy of high-traffic spaces, has not forgotten to protect local life. For example, the V19 bus line has seen reinforcements during Saturdays and holidays, achieving a 40% reduction in passenger congestion. In addition, the extension of the restricted access area to La Salut and the rearrangement of cab ranks are important steps to alleviate the pressure of tourism.
To encourage civic use of the space, events such as the 2024 sports festival have sprung up in the Gràcia district. These events not only enliven the place, but also offer residents the opportunity to enjoy the park as their own space.
Neighborhood access: a priority
A fundamental part of these initiatives is to ensure that Barcelona residents have free and open access. This is facilitated through exclusive time slots for neighbors, under the “Bon dia, Barcelona” and “Bon vespre, Barcelona” programs. The neighborhood card and the Gaudir Més program are also essential tools for maintaining this privilege.
In short, Park Güell is undergoing an exciting process of renovation, not only to shine in the eyes of tourism, but to ensure that the citizens of Barcelona continue to feel an integral part of its development and future.
