The Government's sub-delegate in Almería, José María Martín, held an institutional meeting with the new mayor of El Ejido, Julia Ibáñez. During the encounter, they discussed key projects that the Spanish Government plans to develop in the municipality, aiming to coordinate efforts and ensure citizen welfare.
A central point was the imminent start of renovation works for the El Ejido/Centro/Almerimar interchanges on the A-7 highway. This intervention, awarded by the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility for 14.3 million euros, will cover approximately 3.5 kilometers of the road to enhance its capacity, safety, and functionality. The plan includes expanding roundabouts and overpasses, as well as improving various ramps, particularly at the ‘Copo’ interchange, given the high traffic volume and its connection to strategic points like the Poniente University Hospital and commercial areas.
Water issues also featured prominently. The sub-delegate highlighted investments from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, through SEIASA, aimed at modernizing irrigation systems and promoting efficient water use. Projects such as those in Tierras de Almería, the use of treated wastewater from the El Ejido WWTP, and the modernization of irrigation for the Sierra de Gádor Users' Community collectively amount to 81.9 million euros. These initiatives, benefiting 7,933 hectares and 3,711 irrigators, reinforce the government's commitment to agricultural competitiveness, water efficiency, and sustainability.
The project for the stabilization of Balerma beach was also analyzed, a strategic action to combat coastal erosion in the El Ejido area. With an estimated investment of 12 million euros, the plan involves constructing eight breakwaters to provide a long-term structural solution, reducing reliance on periodic sand replenishment and post-storm repairs. Martín recalled additional resources allocated for the conservation of the Almería coastline following storm episodes, emphasizing the importance of protecting this beach for environmental, economic, and tourism reasons.
The meeting served to reaffirm institutional cooperation between administrations. Martín valued the encounter as a key forum for monitoring state actions affecting El Ejido, highlighting investments in communications, agriculture, and coastal protection. He stressed that institutional collaboration is essential for these projects to progress and translate into concrete improvements for citizens. Matters concerning security, immigration, and justice were also discussed.
