The Ajuntament de Banyoles (Pla de l'Estany) has begun construction of a new green path along the northern side of the Figueres road, creating a shared route for cyclists and pedestrians to safely cross the C-150a and reach Parc de la Draga.
The project, running from the C-150a to Carrer Sant Martirià, will take approximately three months and is budgeted at €158,520. It aims to improve safety for non-motorised users, reduce vehicle speeds entering Banyoles from this direction, and connect existing cycle lanes.
The new route will link the cycle lane on Carrer Sant Martirià with the one starting at the roundabout on the GIP-5121 road, enhancing the city’s cycling network. The space will also be upgraded for pedestrians, with improved accessibility compared to the current layout.
Safety and Flood Improvements
A key feature of the project is the installation of pedestrian and cyclist traffic lights at the C-150a crossing, along with a warning traffic light for vehicles approaching Banyoles. Additional lighting will be added to improve visibility at the junction of Carrer Llibertat, the Figueres road, and the C-150a.
These works will also address recurring flood issues in the area, which have long affected the surrounding infrastructure.
Currently, a surface ditch collects rainwater from the GIP-5121, contributing to local flooding. This will be removed and replaced with an underground collector running beneath the new green path, directing water into the municipal drainage system. Mayor Miquel Noguer said the upgrade should prevent flooding caused by both the ditch and the nearby car park.
Wider Investment in Parc de la Draga
The green path is part of broader investment in the Parc de la Draga area. The council has approved a director’s plan for the park’s phased redevelopment over the next four to five years, with a total budget of €270,000, of which €50,000 was allocated this year.
Recent works have already restored the cycle path near the Club Natació Banyoles and extended it toward the Passeig dels Jocs Olímpics Banyoles 1992. Future improvements include renewing the tree canopy, installing a new footbridge at the pond near the Neolithic Park, upgrading the irrigation system, and repairing internal pathways.
Residents and visitors can expect temporary disruptions during the construction period, but the finished route will offer a safer, more accessible connection to one of Banyoles’ most significant green and cultural spaces.
Reported by gerio.cat, J. Ferrer, Pere Duran, David Bertran, Ramon Estéban, ACN, usuari, Gerió Digital.
