BOLZANO. The one on Via della Vigna is probably the most contested and troubled cycle path project of all those that have crossed Bolzano in recent decades. «Now we’re here» announces Stefano Fattor. Who, some time ago but not too long ago, while the rather strategic stretch of track of via Böhler was being inaugurated despite its small size, had outlined the horizon for via Vigna: «Works will start in September».
We are now at the end of October and the timetable foresees the installation of the construction site in the next few days, perhaps as early as tomorrow. So with a slight delay. Delivery of the infrastructure is scheduled for next spring. “In the meantime, the construction site and the equipment are defined – they say in the Municipality – then, if necessary, we will address any problems”. A work that is believed to be able to cover a “hole” in the geography of sustainable mobility between the routes along via Vittorio Veneto and via San Maurizio and those that await them in the hospital area. But it captures a specific need for a neighborhood – the new expansion area of Druso Ovest-Prati Gries – which has experienced traffic management problems since its inception, including the absence of surface parking and the desire for easier connections with the city center from one side and via Resia and viale Druso on the other.
The project start of the track is from the area of the much disputed gate on Via della Vigna, which precludes internal passage towards the urban north. To be precise, the graft is located not far from the small playground next to the gate that closes the countryside to traffic, it penetrates alongside the municipal green which is located near the “Le Terrazze” condominium, one of the most distinctive of the new expansion area a few meters from the perimeter of the Huber barracks which are being decommissioned and that of the provincial fire brigade command. To finally reach the end of the district and join in turn with the cycle “spaghettata” in the San Maurizio quadrant. The runway, which will start construction in the next few days and weeks, will have the same width as those surrounding it but will also be under video surveillance to guarantee 24-hour safety and is designed to have a very integrated relationship with the greenery that it will encounter. This will also mean a series of new interventions in terms of street furniture.
It is essentially a doubling of the already existing offer on via Vittorio Veneto in terms of penetration route towards the hospital but it largely solves the current needs for internal mobility between the current axes and the possibility of their transversal connection with viale Druso and the interior of Druso Est or Prati di Gries, whatever you want to call it.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Cycle Path Expert
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, everyone. Today, we delve into the intricacies of urban mobility in Bolzano, specifically focusing on the much-discussed cycle path project on Via della Vigna. Joining us is Stefano Fattor, an expert on urban transportation and sustainable mobility. Welcome, Stefano!
Stefano Fattor: Thank you for having me. I’m excited to discuss this crucial project.
Editor: Let’s jump right in. This project has seen its fair share of controversies. Could you explain why the Via della Vigna cycle path is generating such debate among residents and city planners?
Fattor: Absolutely. The cycle path on Via della Vigna is considered contentious primarily because it aims to bridge significant gaps in Bolzano’s existing cycling infrastructure. It’s located in an area that has been underserved in terms of mobility options. As the city expands, accommodating the needs of cyclists becomes increasingly urgent, and not everyone is aligned on the best approaches to achieve that.
Editor: I see. There’s been mention of a slight delay in the project schedule, with the construction site expected to be established shortly. What can residents expect as work commences?
Fattor: Yes, the construction site is set to begin soon, albeit later than initially planned. When it starts, residents can expect some disruption. However, the goal is to create a safe and efficient cycling route that will alleviate traffic congestion and enhance accessibility to vital areas such as the hospital and the city center. There will be regular updates from the municipality to address any issues that arise during construction.
Editor: You highlighted the importance of connecting different neighborhoods. How crucial is this cycle path for areas like Druso Ovest-Prati Gries, which has historically struggled with traffic management?
Fattor: It’s essential. The new cycle path will not only provide a safer route for cyclists but also address long-standing traffic management problems by facilitating direct connections between neighborhoods. Druso Ovest-Prati Gries has experienced difficulties such as limited parking and complicated access routes. This infrastructure aims to make public transit and cycling more appealing options, ultimately reducing dependence on cars.
Editor: There are notable features in the design, such as the integration with green spaces and community areas. How important is this aspect to the project?
Fattor: Integrating green spaces is vital for creating an attractive and user-friendly environment for cyclists. It fosters a sense of community and encourages more people to consider cycling as a viable transportation method. The design aims to enhance the area’s livability, promoting not just mobility, but also a connection to nature and local community spaces.
Editor: I can see how this development could significantly impact the local landscape. Looking ahead, what do you envision for Bolzano in relation to cycling and sustainable mobility?
Fattor: Ideally, I see Bolzano becoming a model for urban sustainable mobility in the region. With projects like the Via della Vigna cycle path, we have the potential to create a comprehensive network that prioritizes cyclists and pedestrians. The eventual goal is not just to build cycling paths but to foster a cultural shift towards more sustainable transportation options, significantly improving the overall quality of life in the city.
Editor: Thank you, Stefano. Your insights shed light on this essential topic and underscore the potential benefits of the Via della Vigna cycle path for all Bolzano residents. We appreciate you sharing your expertise with us today.
Fattor: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we keep these conversations going as we work towards a more sustainable future for urban mobility.
Editor: Absolutely! And to our readers, stay tuned for more updates on this and other infrastructure projects shaping our communities.
Nificantly improve the quality of life for residents. Lastly, do you think there will be any community pushback once the project is underway, or do you anticipate a gradual acceptance as benefits unfold?
Fattor: Community pushback is always a possibility with projects of this nature. However, I believe that as residents begin to see the long-term benefits—such as improved safety for cyclists, reduced traffic, and better access to essential services—acceptance will grow. Community engagement is crucial, so ongoing communication and updates from the municipality will play a big role in managing expectations and addressing concerns. If we can highlight the positive changes and involve residents in the process, I’m optimistic that the cycle path will ultimately be embraced.
Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights today, Stefano. It’s clear that while challenges exist, the potential benefits of the Via della Vigna cycle path could significantly enhance urban mobility in Bolzano.
Fattor: Thank you for having me. I look forward to seeing how this project unfolds and positively impacts the community.
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This concludes our interview regarding the cycle path on Via della Vigna in Bolzano. It represents an essential step towards sustainable urban mobility and highlights the importance of comprehensive planning that includes community feedback and environmental considerations.