The long-standing discussion about a new bridge over the Tagus River in Lisbon is finally concluded. In a decisive move, the Portuguese Minister of Infrastructure, Miguel Pinto Luz, announced that the new concession contract for the bridges over the Tagus in Lisbon will include the construction of the third crossing, marking a significant development in the city's transport infrastructure.
Lisbon Strengthens Connections with the South Bay Region
The announcement, made during a parliamentary session on Wednesday 24th July, highlighted the need to help the heavy traffic burden on the existing 25 de Abril and Vasco da Gama bridges. According to the local press, over 200,000 daily passengers cross the two bridges, underscoring the importance of a new streamlined connectivity between Lisbon and the South Bay.
This announcement adds more to the existing discussion about extending the Lisbon metro connection with Costa da Caparica, one of the best beach destinations in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. The South Bay region is set to receive significant infrastructure upgrades, including a new airport and a high-speed rail connection that will link Lisbon directly to Spain.
These developments mark the realisation of long-held dreams for Lisboetas, enhancing both regional and international connectivity. The new airport will facilitate increased air traffic and tourism, while the high-speed train will provide a faster, more efficient travel option for both commuters and travellers, significantly boosting Lisbon's appeal as a major European hub.
Bridging the Gap: Chelas-Barreiro Connection
The new bridge, set to connect the Chelas neighbourhood, in Lisbon, to the city of Barreiro, on the south bank of the Tagus, is part of a broader strategy to enhance the region's transportation network. Minister Luz emphasised that the new concession contract, which includes the construction of this third crossing, is already in the works. "We have teams actively engaged in drafting a concession that will incorporate the third Tagus crossing," he stated during the hearing before the Committee on Economy, Public Works, and Housing.
The existing bridges, operated by Lusoponte, under a concession that expires in 2030, will see their contract extended to include the new bridge – which still does not have a name. This public-private partnership is expected to leverage the expertise and resources of these companies to ensure the timely and efficient construction of the new infrastructure.
The construction of the new bridge is not a new project. In fact, this has been a long-term political project. It complements other significant infrastructure developments in the region, such as the new Lisbon airport at Campo de Tiro de Alcochete, which aims to help the overloaded Humberto Delgado, Lisbon’s International Airport. Additionally, Infraestruturas de Portugal has been tasked with finalising studies for the third Tagus crossing and a high-speed rail link between Lisbon and Madrid, underscoring the government's commitment to enhancing regional connectivity.
Long-Awaited Infrastructure Development Plays Important Game in Portugal’s Economic Growth
For decades, the idea of a third bridge has been a topic of debate among Lisbon's citizens and policymakers. The growing population and increased economic activity in the metropolitan area have placed in the public discussions the necessity of such an infrastructure project. The new bridge is expected to not only ease daily commutes but also boost economic growth by improving the flow of goods and services across the river. The real estate sector, in areas such as Montijo, Barreiro, Alcochete and Almada, has already started to feel the pressure with property prices increasing over the past years.
Falling under the same development package for the Lisbon Metropolitan Area’s infrastructure, the metro line will be extended from Cacilhas to Caparica Beach. The idea of taking the metro to Costa da Caparica is also a plan more than a decade old that intends to cover the transportation infrastructure in that area. With the new Airport ort probably being developed at the South Bay, the region will stage big changes in its groundwork.
Pushed by Lisbon’s expansion, the new bridge will facilitate the commute between the city and its southern suburbs, making these areas more attractive to both residents and investors. Portugal Homes Real Estate experts predict a significant appreciation in property values in these newly accessible regions. This strength in Portugal’s Real Estate industry was expected to happen according to the predictions, especially for Lisbon, the nation’s capital. With an impressive upward trajectory, Lisbon established itself as one of the most attractive European cities for real estate investments in 2024. In just two years, the Portuguese capital has soared from 16th position to 8th in 2024, in a report produced by PwC and the Urban Land Institute, which ranks the best European capitals for Real Estate investments. Given the report’s credibility, it is expected that house prices in Portugal will remain stable and likely continue to rise over the coming years.
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Improved infrastructure connectivity often leads to increased demand for housing, commercial spaces, and amenities, pushing property prices upward. Lisbon’s South Bay area offers a more affordable yet increasingly desirable alternative. As a result, potential homebuyers and investors are likely to invest in these areas, by the promise of enhanced accessibility and future growth.
The expected influx of residents and businesses will likely lead to further development in infrastructure, services, and amenities, creating a positive feedback loop that bolsters property values. This transformation could mirror the impact seen in other global cities where new transportation links have revitalised previously underdeveloped areas.
Portugal's impressive economic growth reflected in the improvement of its internal infrastructure, gained international attention with a major announcement from Eurostat in January 2024. The European Union's statistical office revealed that Portugal has achieved a significant milestone in its Fiscal Responsibility policy by exiting the list of the top five most indebted EU nations. This notable achievement highlights Portugal's recent economic progress and strengthens its reputation as a prime investment destination. Portugal has emerged as an important EU economy, attracting international investors worldwide. With a positive 0.8% quarter-on-quarter GDP growth, Portugal rebounded in 2023 from a brief economic contraction.
Current Bridges and Highway Connectivity
Lisbon's existing bridges, the 25 de Abril and Vasco da Gama play crucial roles in the nation's transportation network. The 25 de Abril Bridge, San Francisco’s Golden Bridge twin, connects Lisbon to the Almada district, and is a vital artery for traffic heading south towards Caparica Beach and the Algarve region. This bridge seamlessly integrates with the A2 highway, facilitating a smooth journey to Portugal's popular southern coast.
Similarly, the Vasco da Gama Bridge, currently the longest bridge in Europe with a total length of over 17 kilometres (10.6 miles), provides a direct route from Lisbon to Montijo and Alcochete. This bridge is essential for traffic moving east toward Spain, particularly through the A6 highway, which leads to the historic city of Évora and onward to the Spanish border.
Both bridges are integral to the movement of people and goods across the region, supporting economic activities and tourism. They not only serve local commuters but also cater to international travellers, thereby boosting cross-border commerce and cultural exchange.
Portugal Homes Keep Tracking the Political Scene in Portugal for You
As Lisbon prepares for this significant upgrade to its infrastructure network, Portugal Homes team of experts will keep its focus on cover all relevant developments. The announcement of Lisbon's third bridge over the Tagus River marks a historic moment for the city, as Lisbon is set to experience enhanced connectivity and economic growth, paving the way for a more connected and prosperous future.
Portugal Homes advisors are keen to help you to invest into Portuguese Real Estate while the timing is perfect. Contact us today to understand how to take the first step and secure your future.
