In the coming years, Barcelona residents will face sweeping changes to their familiar urban environment. The municipality has announced the launch of its largest infrastructure renewal program, covering 29 districts at once. More than 200 million euros have been allocated for these upgrades, promising a noticeable transformation in the cityscape and daily life.
Authorities emphasize that this is not mere cosmetic repair, but a comprehensive modernization of key urban infrastructure elements. Particular attention is being paid to areas with steep slopes and challenging terrain, where residents face daily mobility challenges. In 2026, work will begin to replace and upgrade escalators and elevators that have long required intervention. Plans include the complete replacement of 11 groups of escalators (24 individual units) and the modernization of 13 elevators, ensuring that none will be older than 15 years.
Urban mobility
For many residents of Carmel, Roquetes, la Teixonera, Ciutat Meridiana, and Vallbona (names in original language), these changes could be vital. In these neighborhoods, escalators and elevators are not a luxury but a necessity. The municipality promises that after the upgrade, no staircase will be older than 20 years, and outdated elevators will become a thing of the past. At the same time, a new navigation system and information displays will be installed citywide, aiming to make getting around easier for everyone—including tourists and the elderly.
Authorities emphasize that these measures are not a one-off initiative but part of a long-term strategy to maintain a high-quality urban environment. Under the Pla Endreça program (original name), more than 1,100 projects have already been carried out to repair roads, sidewalks, irrigation, and lighting systems. In 2025, for example, 220,000 square meters of asphalt and 38,000 square meters of sidewalks were renewed, more than 1,000 urban objects replaced, and 1,300 streetlights upgraded.
Infrastructure breakthrough
It’s not just the city’s surface that’s set for change. In 2026, a sweeping overhaul of the sewer system will begin: more than 10 kilometers of underground networks will be inspected and upgraded. To put this in perspective, that’s nearly the length of the famous Avinguda Diagonal. The project has a budget of €18.4 million, with completion expected by the end of 2027.
Authorities point out that such investments are not a whim, but a necessity. In some districts, infrastructure wear and tear has reached a critical level, and delays could lead to breakdowns or interruptions in city services. As a result, residents will benefit not only from a more comfortable environment, but also from a reduced risk of unexpected outages and malfunctions.
Financial scale
The total budget for the Pla Endreça program has already exceeded €435 million, and with annual spending on urban upkeep, this figure reaches €550 million a year. Officials stress that such investments guarantee Barcelona will remain one of the most convenient and modern cities in Europe.
However, not all residents view the news unambiguously. On social media, people discuss how effectively funds are being spent and why some districts receive more attention than others. The municipality promises transparency and regular updates on the progress of the work, so that every resident can see how their neighborhood is changing.
New standards
As part of the renovation, the plan is not only to carry out repairs but also to introduce new safety and comfort standards. Special attention is given to accessibility for people with reduced mobility, as well as to environmental aspects — for example, the modernization of irrigation and landscaping systems. Authorities insist that once all works are complete, the city will not only be more attractive but also safer, and the quality of life will improve for all residents.
While some are eagerly awaiting change, others fear temporary inconveniences and a possible increase in taxes. Still, the scope and ambition of the program leave no doubt: Barcelona is preparing for a major transformation that will affect every resident.
