Port of São Miguel e Santa Maria, Portugal – ESPO initiative
São Miguel e Santa Maria’s project is bringing people closer to the sea
The goal of integration with the community is particularly important, says the port of São Miguel e Santa Maria.
This is especially so on an island which receives most of the cargo to the entire archipelago through maritime traffic and which is increasing its passenger traffic from cruise ships.
The 'Gateway of the Sea' development is a multi-purpose complex which combines leisure, culture and functionality for the tourists as well as the local population. Importantly, it has also become a new central point for the city, with several events bringing local people to the sea, one of the main objectives of the project.
The cruise ships’ quay is linked by a bridge to a terminal allowing fast access to tour buses and to a commercial alley. Ferries are berthed to the west of the complex to segregate the traffic flow and ensure that disembarked vehicles do not interfere with those waiting to board.
The new marina, berthing 470 yachts, is two minutes walking distance from the town centre, providing a cosmopolitan experience in a traditional city. The Sea Pavilion, separated from the terminal, is a modern multi-event centre suitable for exhibitions, concerts, sports and it includes a panoramic restaurant, viewing the sea on one side and the city on the other.
On the east side of the complex there is a commercial alley with various shops, restaurants and bars, directly connected to the maritime terminal. Finally the port also offers a seawater pool and an underground car park with 200 places to serve the entire complex.
Other initiatives planned include a port museum, which will have two unique broad gauge locomotives (Brunel’s gauge) and their line, used in the port’s construction during the 19th century.
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