The excavation of the Erjos Tunnel, connecting the municipalities of El Tanque in the north and Santiago del Teide in the south of Tenerife, has officially been completed.
The tunnel, which stretches 5.1 kilometres, is the longest in the Canary Islands and stands out as Spain’s first interurban tunnel with two separate tubes, is expected to be finished and functional in 2027, two years behind schedule.
The tunnel will improve travel between the north and south of Tenerife, helping to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly along the highly congested TF-5 motorway that serves the Santa Cruz–La Laguna metropolitan area.
"This is one of the largest projects currently undertaken by the regional government and represents the most substantial budget within the current Road Agreement," said Pablo Rodríguez, Minister of Public Works, Housing, and Mobility.
The project has a budget exceeding €260 million, including an initial €241 million allocation and an additional €22 million to cover price revisions in 2023. "The Erjos Tunnel will cross the Teno Massif, significantly improving connectivity and easing travel between the two halves of the island," he added.
Rodríguez emphasized the Canary Islands government’s commitment to minimising the project's environmental impact, keeping to scheduled timelines, and maintaining budget discipline. "This milestone demonstrates our dedication to enhancing infrastructure and the quality of life for Tenerife residents," he said.
In alignment with environmental considerations, the project also included the restoration of disused quarries near Santiago del Teide in La Grama and Bilma Mountain. Additionally, leftover excavation materials were repurposed for concrete production, asphalt, and other groundwork associated with the tunnel's construction.
