Closure of the Conde de Casal Tunnel: How will it affect mobility in Madrid until 2027?

A drastic change in Madrid traffic

Starting from 8 May 2026, the Conde de Casal tunnel will be completely closed due to the construction of the new interchange, a measure that will extend until February 2027. This decision, announced by the delegate for Urbanism, Environment and Mobility, Borja Carabante, aims to facilitate construction and improve road infrastructure in the capital.

With the tunnel closure, drivers will need to adapt to a new traffic configuration. Two lanes will be opened for entry from the A-3 towards the Conde de Casal square and one for exit towards Valencia and M-30 North. However, the number of lanes for entering Madrid will be reduced from two to one before the M-30 bridge.

Additionally, certain turns will be prohibited at the Conde de Casal square, further complicating traffic. Drivers will need to avoid left turns towards O'Donnell or from Doctor Esquerdo towards other major avenues.

To mitigate the inconveniences caused by the construction, alternative routes have been established that drivers should consider:

• A-3-Conde de Casal Square-Mariano de Cavia Roundabout.
• A-3-Conde Casal Square-Doctor Esquerdo-O'Donnell.
• M-40 for long journeys.

These diversions are essential to maintain an acceptable flow of traffic during this prolonged construction period.

Not only motorists will feel the impact; urban bus lines will also experience significant modifications. The Regional Transport Consortium has announced specific changes for several lines:

• Line E: stop relocation near Conde de Casal square.
• Lines 63, 143, 145, and N9: temporary removal of key stops.

The terminals for some lines will also be relocated within the intermodal area to facilitate their operation during the construction.

The City Council has implemented a special device with municipal personnel and agents dedicated to traffic control. This team will be present to address any eventualities related to the expected increase in vehicle volume due to the tunnel closure. Collaboration between different agencies is crucial to minimize the inconvenience these works may cause to Madrid citizens during this extended period.