Since the implementation of free urban bus travel in San Fernando on January 1st, user numbers have seen a significant increase of 82.54%. This data was presented by the municipal government during the latest plenary session, coinciding with the approval of the public service's deficit for 2025, which exceeded 1.4 million euros. This figure is projected to surpass two million euros by year-end after the elimination of the fare system.
The municipal executive, led by Patricia Cavada, views this initiative not as a deficit but as a strategic investment. The over two million euros that the San Fernando City Council will assume represent a key pillar in its mobility strategy, aimed at transforming the city from one of cars to one of people. This was emphasized by the socialist councilor José Luis Cordero, the municipal transport official.
Cordero highlighted that the initiative not only facilitates and makes travel more convenient but also promotes sustainability by reducing emissions, encouraging the use of public transport over private vehicles. The free bus service, including special routes to Camposoto beach and the Fair, is considered one of the most important tools in this policy.
Concurrently, the City Council has announced upcoming service improvements. The routes of the two existing lines will be extended to serve the La Casería towers area and the new Janer commercial park. Additionally, schedules have been adjusted to coincide with the departure times of workers from the Bahía Sur shopping center, making public transport more accessible for them.
In line with this effort to boost urban bus usage, new bus stop shelters are being installed throughout the town, with work now in its final stages. "We have almost doubled the number of passengers with the introduction of the free service," stated Cordero during the plenary session, noting that in seven months, nearly twice as many residents have been using the urban bus to travel around La Isla.
