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REEEEtram gets first ever approval in Barcelona city plenary. However the clusterfuck is not over yet.
QRD on REEEEEtram
>Barcelona has two separate tram networks totalling 29,9km,opened around '04. Both of these systems have parts running on stretches of Diagonal ave., a 10km long thoroughfare that crosses the whole city. These systems were meant to be joined along said ave to create a central trunk branching out into poorly served burbs. Due to pressure from NIMBYs, the auto lobby and a media disinfo campaign this was put on hold indefinitely.
>what does this new happening mean?
This means the city will convey the regional govt (responsible for building the tram connection) that the city is ok with it. The tram connection had long been approved by regional govt, but couldn't get done without the city approving it.
>what happens now?
Now the city wants the regional govt to present the specific financial contract/plan. Tram operation is privatized, and this has led to continuous populist opposition claiming the tram operator will "make money" off a public investment (a half truth at best, since it would also mean less deficit/subsidy). The good news is they finally agreed to let the contract for private operation run out instead of buying it out which would be expensive as fuck.
>when can this connection be expected to happen?
If everything goes well and unless there's a big surprise in the election this year (pro tram parties will very likely be the majority again) construction work could start in 2021 at the earliest.
