BOLZANO. By April 30th all the orange columns that measure speed (16 in the city) will have to be removed. There will certainly be two speed checks left in Bolzano: in Arginale and in via Galileo Galilei (in front of the Twenty). But in the next few weeks the Municipality will request to increase the limits of some particularly dangerous sections of via Cadorna, via Resia and via Druso 40 to 50 kilometers per hourso that new fixed detectors can be installed.
It is the maximum, at the moment, that mobility offices can “aspire” to in light of the provisions contained in a decree by Minister Matteo Salvini, which has effectively silenced every system that measures speed, pending the new regulatory framework. This was discussed at the Government Commissariat in a meeting – chaired by the prefect Vito Cusumano – which was also attended by the commanders of the municipal police forces of Alto Adige. Commander Fabrizio Piras was there for Bolzano.
The new rules
In essence, the parties sitting at the table agreed on the methods for sending requests for future installations. But an in-depth analysis, for each municipality, takes time and will be drawn up together with the mayors in the coming months. “Speed checks will no longer be used as a generic deterrent, but will have to be motivated by the analysis of road accidents, in which it must be demonstrated that accidents are caused by speed”, explains the councilor Stefano Fattor. To request a detector, the Municipality must ask the Polstrada for an opinion, and only then wait for the prefect’s authorization. «We intend to focus on via Cadorna, via Resia and via Druso, in addition to the two in the industrial area, because these are those sections which due to their characteristics have a high risk of accidents», comments Fattor. It cannot be ruled out that the request for the detectors will also be made elsewhere.
Municipalities that want to install speed checks must have the PUT (urban traffic plan) approved. «The legal basis for the 40 kilometers per hour limit – explains the city councilor Claudio Della Ratta - seems problematic, since it is based on an assertion not supported by official documents. In fact, the 2008 Urban Traffic Plan did not include the provision of a general limit of 40 km/h, as stated in the ordinance in force. This situation could justify an intervention to restore the standard limit of 50 km/h, possibly maintaining 40 km/h only in sensitive areas. The absence of a Put – updated way back in 2014 – is a further critical element. An updated plan that complies with current legislation would be essential to support and legitimize decisions such as speed limits and related ordinances.” AL.BO.
What are the expected outcomes of reducing speed cameras in Bolzano for local traffic safety?
Time.news Interview: The Future of Speed Monitoring in Bolzano
Interviewer (Editor of Time.news): Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. We have with us [Expert’s Name], a prominent authority in traffic safety and urban mobility. Today, we’re discussing some recent developments regarding speed monitoring in Bolzano. Welcome, [Expert’s Name]!
Expert: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to share insights on this important topic.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The Bolzano municipality has decided to remove all existing speed cameras, with only two planned for future monitoring. Can you tell us about the reasoning behind this decision?
Expert: Absolutely! The recent decree from Minister Matteo Salvini has reshaped the framework for speed monitoring across Italy, particularly in Bolzano. The idea is to reassess how speed checks are utilized, shifting the focus from general deterrence to targeted enforcement based on data. This means speed checks will only be implemented where there’s clear evidence that speed contributes to accidents.
Editor: You mentioned data-driven decisions. What criteria will municipalities have to meet to justify the installation of new speed detectors?
Expert: Good question. Under the new regulations, municipalities will have to conduct thorough analyses and demonstrate that speed is a significant factor in road accidents before they can install new speed cameras. Councillor Stefano Fattor hinted that they will concentrate on known high-risk areas, such as via Cadorna, via Resia, and via Druso, where the road characteristics suggest a heightened risk of accidents.
Editor: That focus on specific areas makes sense. How do you think this new approach will impact road safety in Bolzano?
Expert: The transition to a more focused, evidence-based strategy has the potential to improve public safety significantly. By addressing specific high-risk areas, authorities can allocate resources more effectively and potentially reduce the number of accidents. However, it will be crucial for the municipalities to invest in comprehensive data collection and analysis to ensure that the right measures are taken.
Editor: The community’s perception of speed monitoring can often be negative. How do you think the local population will react to these changes?
Expert: There’s a dual aspect to consider. On one hand, residents may feel relieved by a less intrusive monitoring system, viewing it as a fairer approach that prioritizes safety over punitive measures. On the other hand, if accidents continue due to an inadequate response to speed-related issues, there might be dissatisfaction. Clear communication about the rationale behind these changes and the data driving them will be essential to foster trust within the community.
Editor: Speaking of communication, you mentioned that mayors will be involved in future discussions about speed monitoring. How important is their role in this process?
Expert: The involvement of local leaders is vital. Mayors have a direct line to community members and can advocate for measures that reflect the specific needs and conditions of their districts. Their insights can help tailor strategies to effectively address traffic safety issues in a way that resonates with residents. Effective collaboration between regional authorities, the police, and local governments can lead to better outcomes.
Editor: Last question, [Expert’s Name]. What’s next for Bolzano in terms of traffic safety initiatives post this implementation?
Expert: Moving forward, it will be essential for Bolzano to not only implement these changes but also continuously monitor their effectiveness. They should be prepared to revisit and revise strategies based on real-world outcomes and community feedback. Additionally, fostering a culture of safety through public awareness campaigns and education about speed limits and safe driving practices will play an important role in reducing accidents long term.
Editor: Thank you, [Expert’s Name], for your insights today. It’s clear that Bolzano is navigating a significant transition in traffic safety. We’ll be keeping an eye on this development.
Expert: Thank you for having me. It was a pleasure discussing this important topic!