The underground parking lot at Algemesí Market Square comes back to life on July 1st. After a year and eight months submerged by the flood, the reconstruction has cost 1.2 million euros paid by the municipal insurance. The reopening promises fewer cars in the center and a breather for local commerce. From the same day, the regulated ORA parking returns with a subsidized rate for residents and merchants: only 0.35 euros per week, a measure aimed at easing the burden on residents' wallets.
The engineering behind the drainage: pumps and sensors to prevent another flood 🛠️
The parking lot rehabilitation was not just about painting walls. A drainage system was installed with high-capacity pumps capable of evacuating water at a rate of 200 liters per second. Additionally, real-time level sensors were incorporated, connected to a control unit that alerts to any rise. The walls were waterproofed with epoxy resins and the expansion joints were reinforced. The floor received an anti-slip treatment to prevent falls, and the ventilation was upgraded with higher-power extractors. All so that water does not catch us off guard again.
0.35 euros per week: the price of having a car in Algemesí 💶
The new ORA rate for residents is so low it almost seems like a rounding error: 0.35 euros per week. That won't even fill the tank of a lighter. Merchants also benefit, although some fear the price is so symbolic that people will park systematically. The city council sells it as a relief for the wallet, but watch out: if you pay for the whole year, it costs less than a latte. That said, good luck finding a spot now that the parking lot is operational again.