Andorra Tenders €37k Bus Study to Integrate with Tramvalira Tram

The Andorran government has launched an international tender worth €37,620 including VAT for a five-month strategic study to restructure the bus network, making it complementary to the proposed Tramvalira tramway to La Seu d'Urgell.

The contract focuses on optimising bus operations within a segregated transport model. It requires planning for how buses will integrate with the tram, including infrastructure such as space reservations for stops, transfer points, park-and-ride facilities and linkage parking. These must fit into the sectoral infrastructure plan for transport, considering future urban growth, planned roads, cycle lanes and similar developments to ensure full public transport coverage.

In parallel, the Generalitat de Catalunya has opened bidding for a €867,446 feasibility study, including VAT, on the 20-kilometre Tramvalira line—estimated at €250 million to build, with at least five stations. The budget breaks down to €716,897 excluding VAT and €150,548 in 21% VAT, with 65% EU funding via the Interreg VI-A Spain-France-Andorra (Poctefa 2021-2027) programme.

The 12-month study will assess technical and functional viability across the route from La Seu d'Urgell to Escaldes-Engordany, incorporating Andorra's internal tram planning. It includes socioeconomic analysis comparing the tram to bus upgrades like increased frequencies or bus priority lanes, phased rollout options, a parallel cycle path in urban and peri-urban areas, and a branch to La Seu d'Urgell Airport. The winning firm must submit a model one month before the full report, with Infraestructures.cat given three months for review. Cost allocations cover €568,125 for background analysis, mobility diagnosis, route studies and demand forecasts; €30,457 for socioeconomic profitability; €57,845 for the airport extension; and €42,000 for 12 virtual images.

This builds on the Tramvalira steering committee formed in February and Infraestructures.cat's June acknowledgment of limited internal resources. The study will involve regular in-person meetings with Catalan infrastructure officials, Andorran authorities, affected municipalities and other stakeholders, plus partial deliverables. Construction cost estimates could change based on study results and future tenders.

Bids for Andorra's bus study close at 5pm on 7 August.