Madeira Government Tests New Traffic Measure to Ease Ribeira Brava Congestion
Madeira GuideIn an effort to address persistent traffic issues, Madeira's government will trial a new traffic management system in Ribeira Brava on March 27, 2026, aiming to improve flow and reduce congestion.
The Madeira Regional Government is set to implement an experimental traffic management measure in the municipality of Ribeira Brava, aiming to alleviate the frequent congestion in the area. This initiative, scheduled for March 27, 2026, focuses on optimizing traffic flow between the Rotunda da Ribeira Brava (south) and the parish of Tabua, a notorious bottleneck.
According to data from 2025, approximately 26,000 vehicles navigate this segment of the Via Expresso daily, creating significant delays, particularly within the Ribeira Brava Tunnel. The Regional Secretariat for Equipment and Infrastructure, alongside the Directorate of Roads, spearheads this project to improve the traffic situation.
Traffic Management Solution
The proposed solution involves installing a traffic light on the left lane of the southbound road (Serra de Água – Ribeira Brava) near the southern roundabout of Ribeira Brava. This light will be activated during peak congestion periods to regulate traffic flow effectively.
This measure forms part of a broader study launched in late 2025, which included detailed traffic counts and analyses to understand vehicle movement patterns and the main points of congestion. The study aims to develop strategies that mitigate queue formation along the tunnel.
Economic Context and Local Impact
The economic growth and increased activity in western Madeira, particularly in Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, and Calheta, have escalated traffic volumes, presenting new challenges for the local road network. The success of this experimental measure could set a precedent for future traffic solutions in similar areas.
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Madeira Guide
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