The mayor of Vélez-Málaga, Jesús Lupiáñez, accompanied by the deputy mayor for Benajarafe and Chilches, Rocío Ruiz, and the Councilor for Infrastructure, Jesús María Claros, has announced the commencement of the tender process for the execution of the pedestrian accessibility improvement project on the northern bank of the CN-340a. This action is vital for pedestrian circulation between the La Rincona urbanization and La Esperanza.
The comprehensive upgrade of the well-known 'north sidewalk' will entail, according to the mayor, "improvements to the area's infrastructure and facilities," as well as "a significant advancement in pedestrian mobility along this stretch." The Provincial Council of Málaga has granted a subsidy of 741,971.30 euros for this project, which is part of an integral plan aiming to "guarantee pedestrian safety, enhance accessibility, and strengthen the connection between Chilches Costa and Benajarafe, transforming this area into a modern and safe urban corridor along the coastline," explained Lupiáñez.
The local leader described the upcoming work as "the result of efficient and planned management by the City Council," emphasizing "the commitment of the Governing team" to "transform a strategic section of our coast, creating more accessible, safe, and modern spaces for all residents and visitors, equipped with sidewalks, parking, and green areas, thereby reinforcing the tourist and economic appeal of Benajarafe and Chilches Costa."
For her part, the deputy mayor for both towns, Rocío Ruiz, highlighted that this represents "the first stone of a decisive and definitive project for transit in an area frequently used by residents and visitors," considering today as "a crucial step towards, upon completion of the works, having a safe, functional, and optimal environment for pedestrians." She added that "we are responding to a long-standing community demand."
On the technical side, the Councilor for Infrastructure, Jesús María Claros, detailed that the project includes the creation of a wide sidewalk, at least two meters wide, paved with concrete cobblestones, along with parking spaces. The works also involve the renovation of the water supply network and the public lighting system, as well as the installation of a rainwater drainage system for sewage evacuation.
Regarding leisure and recreation, a viewpoint area will be established on Paraíso del Sol street, featuring vegetation and urban furniture, and incorporating gardening with drip irrigation. A minimum 0.60-meter shoulder will be provided along the entire route to enhance safety. The Consistory is also planning further phases for the north sidewalk, funded by European EDIL funds.
The mayor also mentioned other recent actions in the western area, such as improvements to Miosota, Aldebarán, and Sirius streets, with an investment of approximately 200,000 euros. Additionally, the electrical network in the Sirena urbanization has been modernized, and work has been done on the asphalt of Playa Linda and Paraíso del Sol, as well as in Jacarandas in Chilches. Signage and road markings on the N-340 through Benajarafe have been renewed, along with lighting and tree planting on the Benajarafe promenade.




