A very busy street in Zaragoza is Gran Via. Recently, construction began for a new tram system, called the TramVia. For the next two years, residents, professionals and passerbys of Gran Via will hear the pounding and paving of this transportation line.
There´s a lot of controversy surrounding this system. Some think it´s a good idea while many I´ve spoken with disagree of this decision. It´s a lot cheaper than a subway system, but it will only increase traffic. Some argue that the extra money spent on a metro would be wise, however, a metro line would have a difficult time circulating because of the river that courses through the city.
Truthfully, I´m ambivalent. I haven´t lived in this town long enough to really sustain a argument. I have a fairly objective opinion of the situation and am willing to work with what I´m given. However, it is annoying walking to work and having my eardrums pulsate against my skull.
What´s entertaining, however, is how fascinated the Zaragozanos are with the construction of this site. Each day I walk along Gran Via at least four times, to and from work twice a day. And every single time, there is a crowd of people standing against the wire gate, watching the slow-as-a-turtle construction. Pavement, bricks, it´s better than watching a magician perform a groundbreaking trick or George Clooney in his underwear. They´re all so...entranced! I´ve thought about having a popcorn stand nearby to make extra cash. Later I will provide pictures to further display my point. It´s truly a hilarious spectacle, watching people watch people.