Lisbon mayor rejects congestion charge, pledges public transport boost
Carlos Moedas called congestion fees 'absolutely unthinkable' for the Portuguese capital, instead outlining a package of free transport for youth and elderly, fleet renewal, and new park-and-ride facilities.
Speaking at the presentation of a mobility study by the Automóvel Clube Português (ACP) on Wednesday, Moedas argued that Lisbon is not wealthy enough to impose such fees, which would 'punish people with more taxes'.
It would be absolutely unthinkable for me to be punishing people with more taxes.
He outlined a series of supply-side measures: free public transport for young and elderly residents, renewal of the Carris bus fleet, expansion of cycle paths and the Gira bike-sharing scheme, and new park-and-ride lots where Navegante pass holders can park for free. A new tram line 16 from Terreiro do Paço to Loures is also planned.
The ACP study highlighted long waiting times for public transport; Moedas acknowledged the need to increase service frequency but noted Lisbon's situation is less severe than in other European capitals. ACP president Carlos Barbosa countered that public transport in Portugal remains an unreliable alternative to the car.
Public transport in Portugal continues not to be a credible alternative to the car.
