The President of the Generalitat, Carlos Mazón, has emphasized the administration’s strong focus on public works, announcing that more than €300 million is being allocated to infrastructure projects in Alicante province. Speaking at the 17th FOPA (Alicante Federation of Public Works) Awards, Mazón outlined significant investments, upcoming projects, and the Generalitat’s commitment to supporting the region’s economic and social development.
KEY INVESTMENTS IN INFRASTRUCTURE
Road Maintenance and Expansion:
A €93 million budget has been allocated for new road maintenance contracts, including the CV-95 improvement project, which aims to enhance traffic capacity and accessibility. Additionally, plans to double the highway section leading to Torrevieja Hospital are underway.
EPSAR Investments:
The Public Entity for Wastewater Treatment (EPSAR) is investing €60 million in 27 projects, such as constructing a new station in Almoradí and upgrading wastewater treatment plants in Orihuela, Callosa de Segura, San Miguel de Salinas, and Benferri.
Alicante Central Station:
Work has begun on this major transport hub, with €102 million invested to position Alicante as a leading national interchange.
TRAM Modernisation:
The Generalitat has allocated €40 million for TRAM upgrades, including new viaducts in Altea (Mascarat and Algar), set to be completed this month with a combined budget of €16 million.
COMMITMENT TO PUBLIC-PRIVATE COLLABORATION
Mazón reaffirmed the Generalitat’s dedication to strengthening public works through public-private partnerships, which he views as essential for fostering economic growth. He highlighted efforts to create a competitive regulatory and fiscal environment, underscoring the administration’s focus on stability and balanced development.
CONCERNS OVER NATIONAL BUDGET AND UNDERFUNDING
Mazón expressed frustration over the likely extension of the current General State Budget, which he said perpetuates Alicante’s position as the lowest-funded province in Spain for central government investments (52nd out of 52 provinces).
Recognizing Excellence: FOPA Awards
The FOPA Awards celebrated several outstanding public works projects:
Plaza de Arriba in Elda (Public Award).
Renovation of Tabarca Island WWTP and Underwater Pipeline (Special Mention Award).
Dock Improvements in the Port of Alicante (Best Integration, Sustainability, and Environmental Respect).
Redevelopment of Avenida del Mediterráneo in Benidorm (Best Work in Alicante).
Mazón praised the award winners for their quality, rigor, and contributions to Alicante society. He also acknowledged the sector’s role in disaster recovery, citing efforts to restore sewage plants, health centers, and schools after recent floods, ensuring 48,000 children returned to education.
LOOKING AHEAD
The President concluded by highlighting broader initiatives, such as the new Urban Planning Law, housing regulations, and vocational training reforms, which aim to enhance Alicante’s infrastructure and economic competitiveness.
