As part of the construction work for the urban section of the Portagem – Coimbra-B Metrobus, carried out by Infraestruturas de Portugal, which continues to advance at a good pace, a traffic diversion will be implemented from 12 July until the end of 2025, necessary for the execution of the works to transform the Choupal Tunnel into a level crossing and also on the Águas do Centro Litoral outfall. This intervention will also require the closure of Rua Pinto dos Santos.

The execution of this work does not imply the elimination of the connection between Choupal/Ponte Açude and Avenida Fernão de Magalhães. On the contrary, this connection will be ensured by a diversion consisting of two sections, one to the south and one to the north of the tunnel, which allow traffic to be diverted between Rua Pinto dos Santos and Avenida Marginal next to Choupal.

The road alternatives are those shown in the image.

When the works are completed, the new crossing will have greater capacity, as a result of the cessation of rail traffic in the area, which will allow the implementation of a level crossing, regulated by traffic lights, greatly improving mobility. This new crossing will guarantee two traffic lanes, allowing the reestablishment of crossings in both directions simultaneously and thus increasing traffic flow. Pedestrian traffic should also benefit from more open and comfortable circuits, as they will be ensured by flat, level circuits, eliminating inclined sidewalks and stair connections.

It is important to highlight the importance of the ongoing intervention, which will allow the reorganization of road traffic in the surrounding area, increase the green areas, improve pedestrian circulation conditions and, of particular importance, create a functional interface with the public transport lines that serve the population of the northern part of the municipality.