BOLZANO. Construction work on the 1.5 kilometer Varna ring road lasted almost three years. Previously, almost 30 years had passed from idea to realization: now the ring road has been completed. The infrastructure was officially inaugurated with a symbolic ribbon cutting ceremony. First, Father Giampietro Pellegrini blessed the communication route. “Thanks to the new infrastructure, we can improve the transport network of the entire Bressanone basin and improve the quality of life of the inhabitants of the center of the town”, he declared satisfied Daniel Alfreider, provincial councilor for Mobility. At the same time, the Province is building five more ring roads to relieve the traffic-plagued centers. Cycling and pedestrian mobility have also been integrated, said Alfreider, referring to the new cycle and pedestrian path created as part of the works.
“Around 15,000 cars drove along the Brenner state road in Varna every day, sometimes passing directly in front of residential areas. Now residents can finally breathe a sigh of relief from the traffic,” said Varna Mayor Andreas Schatzer. “The ring road is important for sustainable mobility and also has a positive effect on the traffic flow in the Bressanone area and in the Isarco Valley,” said the deputy mayor of the municipality of Bressanone, Ferdinando Stablum. The Varna ring road begins at the Bressanone Nord junction near the Varna district heating plant, winds through the 255 meter long “Raststation” tunnel and the 590 meter long “Vahrn” tunnel, as well as on open intermediate sections, to reconnect to the existing Brenner state road north of Varna through a roundabout. The retaining walls and portal areas of the tunnels are covered with sound-absorbing elements in cellular concrete.
What are the expected benefits of the Varna ring road for local residents in the Bressanone basin?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Daniel Alfreider, Provincial Councilor for Mobility
Time.news Editor: Good day, Mr. Alfreider. Thank you for joining us today. The completion of the Varna ring road marks a significant milestone in the province’s infrastructure development. Can you give us a brief overview of its importance and the impact it will have on the Bressanone basin?
Daniel Alfreider: Thank you for having me. The Varna ring road is crucial for our transportation network. After nearly 30 years of deliberation and nearly three years of construction, this project addresses the longstanding traffic congestion issues in and around Bressanone. By improving the connectivity of the region, we hope to enhance the quality of life for the inhabitants and make travel safer for everyone, including cyclists and pedestrians.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a comprehensive approach. You mentioned the integration of cycling and pedestrian pathways—what specific features were included to support these modes of transport?
Daniel Alfreider: Yes, indeed. The new infrastructure includes dedicated cycling and pedestrian paths, allowing for safe and enjoyable travel for those using non-motorized means of transport. This is part of our broader strategy to promote sustainable mobility in the region. We want to encourage residents to choose cycling or walking, which not only reduces the number of cars on the road but also contributes to a healthier lifestyle and a cleaner environment.
Time.news Editor: That’s a commendable initiative. In addition to the Varna ring road, you mentioned plans for constructing five more ring roads. How will these future projects alleviate traffic congestion, and what timelines are you looking at?
Daniel Alfreider: The future projects will play a pivotal role in relieving pressure on our town centers, which have been plagued by increasing traffic levels. By developing additional ring roads, we aim to create alternate routes for through traffic, which should significantly decrease congestion in heavily impacted areas. While specific timelines can vary due to various factors, we are committed to moving forward swiftly to bring these projects to fruition.
Time.news Editor: Excellent to hear that progress is on the horizon! There’s often public concern surrounding infrastructure projects regarding potential environmental impacts. How does the Province address these concerns in the context of the Varna ring road and future constructions?
Daniel Alfreider: Environmental considerations are at the forefront of our planning and execution. Each project undergoes meticulous environmental assessments to minimize the ecological footprint. We aim to preserve green spaces and local wildlife. Additionally, by promoting sustainable transport options such as cycling and walking, we are contributing to reducing emissions in the long term. It’s a balancing act, and we take our responsibility seriously.
Time.news Editor: It’s reassuring to know that environmental stewardship is part of the planning process. what message would you like to convey to the residents of the Bressanone basin regarding this new infrastructure?
Daniel Alfreider: I want to assure our residents that we hear your concerns and that these investments in infrastructure are meant to improve your daily lives. The completed Varna ring road and the upcoming projects represent a commitment to enhancing connectivity, safety, and overall quality of life. We believe that with better infrastructure, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for our community.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Alfreider, for sharing your insights with us today. We look forward to seeing the positive changes these projects will bring to the region.
Daniel Alfreider: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing this exciting development with you!