Andorra la Vella Begins Work on Third Lane for Busy CG-3 Route

Andorra la Vella's Mobility Department launched preparatory works on Tuesday, April 7, on Carrer de la Unió (CG-3) to install a third traffic lane between the kilometre zero roundabout and the Dama de Gel sculpture. Technicians from FEDA and the Mobility Department began utility inspections and initial checks that morning, with minimal visible disruption at first—limited to a few staff and trucks on site.

The project, approved by the National Mobility Table with input from the communes of Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany, aims to enhance capacity on one of the country's busiest routes linking Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany. Officials expect it to cut traffic volume in the area by up to 20%. FEDA's phase, including utility relocations and removal of elements like containers, loading zones, and an electric charger, should last about 15 days, or two weeks, wrapping up by late April. Resurfacing, new asphalt, and lane markings will follow, with the full redesign operational by month's end.

The updated layout will provide three lanes from the kilometre zero roundabout to the Carrer de Na Maria Pla junction, maintaining three around the Dama de Gel roundabout to that point. Vehicles exiting kilometre zero will use two lanes, narrowing to one toward Dama de Gel. Past that roundabout, two lanes will extend beyond the Meritxell and Carlemany junctions, with the right lane diverting to Na Maria Pla and the left looping back to kilometre zero. A central third lane will mainly serve turning maneuvers.

Key changes include removing existing restaurant terraces—already underway—and loading areas, plus shifting bus stops: communal ones consolidated locally and national lines relocated. Left turns will be banned for all vehicles except national buses heading north to Na Maria Pla, including access to parking and shopping centres. The speed limit drops to 30 km/h across the stretch.

Affected restaurant owners acknowledged short-term impacts amid improving weather but expect long-term gains in pedestrian flow and business visibility. State Secretary for Energy Transition, Transport and Mobility David Forné outlined the plans last week. Drivers face disruptions and should plan routes ahead while following signage.