Rodalies Improvements Set for 2027
The Secretary of State for Transport, José Antonio Santano, has asked for "a little more patience, understanding, and a lot of help" as major upgrades to Barcelona's Rodalies commuter rail network progress toward completion in 2027. Speaking at the Cercle d’Economia, Santano expressed confidence that next year will be a "very clear turning point" for the service. Key developments include the completion of the R3 line doubling between Parets and La Garriga, scheduled for February 2027, despite delays caused by cable thefts [S1]. The work covers 18 kilometres and includes new tracks, electrification, station renovations, and improved accessibility.
New Trains and Airport Line on Horizon
The arrival of new Alstom-built trains, manufactured in Santa Perpètua de Mogoda, is now expected at the start of 2027 due to assembly errors and production shortfalls, according to sources cited by El Periódico [S2]. These trains are undergoing safety assessments by the Agencia de Seguretat Ferrovià before testing and driver training can begin. Santano also confirmed that the R-Aeroport line, which will cut travel time between central Barcelona and the airport to around 20 minutes, will launch next year [S8].
We hope it will not go beyond this month of October.
This refers to the planned transfer of the R1 line from Spanish state control to the Generalitat (Catalan government), which Sílvia Paneque, Minister of Territory, said could occur by October 2026 following a Bilateral Commission meeting [S2]. The handover would mark the first step in transferring full management of Rodalies infrastructure to the newly established Rodalies de Catalunya entity. However, Santano warned that the R1 line, running close to the coast, will immediately require a protection plan due to coastal exposure risks.
Toll System Debate: Dutch Model Favored
On road pricing, Santano described the ongoing reflection on reintroducing tolls as "very appropriate" and advocated for a "homogeneous" national system with a common base adapted locally. He stressed he was not aiming for a 'one size fits all' approach. The Servei Català de Trànsit (SCT) has studied the Dutch satellite-based toll model as the best fit for Catalonia. This system uses an onboard unit, similar to a Teletac device, to record distance travelled via satellite, enabling variable rates based on road type or time slot without physical barriers or booths [S5]. Director Ramon Lamiel confirmed SCT’s preference but noted the final decision rests with the Government, which has formed a working group, including Trànsit, that will meet in the coming weeks to determine the future pay-per-use system [S5].
Commitment Backed by Investment
Santano defended the government’s commitment to Rodalies as "evident" and data-supported. He compared progress to snow melting in spring, gradual until change becomes visible. Paneque echoed this, stating the Rodalies improvement plan is not just a declaration of intent but includes economic resources and concrete projects. She highlighted ongoing efforts such as accessibility upgrades, real-time information systems, and infrastructure repairs on the R11 and in Garraf.
Primary sources: rodalies.gencat.cat, gencat.cat. Reported by liniaxarxa.cat, diaricatalunya.cat, barna.news, rac1.cat, Llagostera Ràdio, Redacción COPE Barcelona, theolivepress.es, Línia Xarxa.
