This agreement, initially announced last December, required internal approval from both institutions responsible for funding the works. The Basque Government granted its approval two weeks ago, and the Bizkaia Provincial Council followed suit this Thursday during its weekly Government Council meeting. The provincial spokesperson emphasized that this infrastructure "will improve the connection of Bilbao's southern neighborhoods with the subway network," and "advance territorial cohesion towards Enkarterri".
The new metro line will link Matiko with Alonsotegi, in Enkarterri, featuring stations near the University of Deusto, Doña Casilda Park, Plaza Elíptica, Zabalburu, Irala, Rekalde, Basurto, and Zorrotza, effectively extending Line 3. Euskal Trenbide Sarea (ETS), the public entity of the Basque Government, will be responsible for executing the projects and construction.
The estimated initial budget for the infrastructure is 412 million euros, a figure that may vary depending on the final design of the construction projects, which are currently in the drafting phase. Under the agreement, the Bizkaia Provincial Council will contribute 45% of the investment, up to a maximum of 200 million euros until 2032, while the Basque Executive will cover the remaining 55%.
“"This infrastructure will improve the connection of Bilbao's southern neighborhoods with the subway network, as well as advance territorial cohesion towards Enkarterri."
This marks a change in criteria, as both institutions have previously co-financed metro projects at a 50% split. According to the provincial spokesperson, the investment percentage assumed by the Council was determined "based on technical criteria, economic availability, and project competence".
The agreement also includes a future connection with Enkarterri's railway network, a condition set by the Council for its participation in funding these works. However, this action is contingent on "a series of administrative processing milestones that exceed the jurisdictional scope of both institutions," as noted by the provincial spokesperson, thus requiring subsequent development. Both institutions have committed to undertaking "all necessary institutional contacts to expedite" these procedures.
