The Boca do Vento panoramic elevator, in Almada, will temporarily close from March 10th for renovation work, interrupting one of the most used connections between the city’s historic center and the Tagus riverside area. The decision was announced by the city hall and implies the suspension of the service for an indefinite period. This means you have until this Monday, March 9th, to visit the elevator.
The infrastructure is frequently used by residents, visitors and customers of restaurants located on the waterfront. According to the Lusa news agency, the intervention aims to improve the operating conditions of the equipment and the experience of those who use this vertical connection between the top of the cliff and Jardim do Rio.
An important link between two levels of the city
The elevator connects the upper part of the historic center of Almada and the Ginjal area, allowing you to quickly descend to the Tagus riverfront. According to the same source, the equipment is used by both tourists and residents who commute daily between these two points.
The connection also serves those who live in the Olho de Boi neighborhood, a small residential area located on the hillside next to the river. According to the same source, this neighborhood has around 30 inhabitants and is historically associated with the former Companhia Portuguesa de Pescas.
Equipment had recently closed
Elevator operation has been irregular in recent weeks. According to the news agency, the equipment was closed at the beginning of February, and resumed operation a few days later.
According to the same source, the elevator was closed on February 2nd and reopened on the 16th of the same month. Now, the new closure once again interrupts a connection considered important for those traveling in that region of the city.
Landslide isolated residents
The situation gained greater relevance after an episode that recently occurred on the cliff. According to the same source, a landslide ended up blocking the only access road to the Olho de Boi neighborhood.
For several days, residents were practically isolated. The alternative available to reach the houses was a staircase with around 210 steps.
Pedestrian path also suffered damage
Access to the area was further limited due to damage caused by severe weather. The agency explains that the Ginjal pedestrian path, which had recently been redeveloped, also suffered damage.
This situation reduced circulation options between the top of the cliff and the riverside area. During this period, the elevator ended up taking on an even more relevant role for travel in the area.
Road reopened, but elevator will stop again
Meanwhile, the road connecting to the neighborhood was opened again, albeit with restrictions. According to the same source, access was restored on Friday only for residents and emergency vehicles.
Despite this reopening, the elevator that was still in operation will now close for works. Almada City Council explained, cited by , that the intervention aims to “improve the conditions and experience of everyone who uses this connection between the historic center of Almada and Jardim do Rio”. For now, no date has been announced for reopening.
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