by MK
In a strategic move to address climate change impacts, the Regional Environmental Defense Councilor, Fabio Scoccimarro, announced an ambitious project for the redevelopment of Barcola’s coastline. The initiative, presented to local institutions and industry associations, aims to forge a collaborative effort between the Region and the Municipality of Trieste.
During the unveiling of the project titled ‘The New Coast of Barcola: Designs, Ideas, and Future,’ Scoccimarro emphasized the project’s realistic objectives, drawing parallels with the determination demonstrated in the successful reconversion of the Servola Steelworks.
The event in Trieste witnessed the participation of key figures, including Mayor Roberto Dipiazza, President of the Venice Giulia Chamber of Commerce Antonio Paoletti, President of the Eastern Adriatic Sea Port Authority Zeno D’Agostino, Regional Coni President Giorgio Brandolin, and President of Trieste Trasporti Maurizio Marzi.
“The future of Barcola is an area that will be suitable for citizens and tourists alike” the architect Giulio Paladini from the company Metroarea which presented the ambitious project told us. “Perfect for swimming and bathing, with new bays, restaurants, and parking lots, but it will also be a project that will preserve the coast for many generations to come.”
Whilst the storm’s damages are expected to be fixed by the summer 2024, the future of Barcola project is a long-term goal. “The project will take 20 years to realize,” continued Paladini, “but it will create a new future for the city that looks 100 years ahead.”
“It will be a joined project that will take into account the city’s needs,” added councilor Scoccimarro, “making our city more appealing for tourists and more livable for locals.”
Scoccimarro outlined the grassroots approach of the project, emphasizing collaboration with local businesses and residents in a bottom-up fashion. “It is a comprehensive undertaking divided into two parts: the seaside, focusing on safety, bathing facilities, and related structures, and the shoreline, addressing roadways and parking, which will integrate into a unified realization.”
Regarding the coastal aspects, pre-project work has been assigned to a multidisciplinary team, resulting in a preliminary plan. The plan prioritizes the traditions of the local residents, the city’s tourism appeal, accessibility for vulnerable populations, consideration for “animal friends,” and dedicated space for water sports. The project planners have devised a timeline that preserves the usability of the waterfront during the summer months by dividing the work into distinct phases.
In terms of the timeline, the process involves the adoption of a variant to the Municipal Development Plan and subsequent development of executive projects, tender processes, and phased implementation of the works.
“Barcola, wounded by the recent storm surge, presents an opportunity to expedite the realization of this comprehensive project aimed at protecting the coast and offering a new vision for the Barcola Riviera. This vision aims to strengthen the city’s tourism potential and economic development,” concluded Councillor Scoccimarro.
In response, President D’Agostino commended the Region’s proactive planning, highlighting their swift response to adverse climatic events and their significant intervention along a crucial stretch of the coastline.
