by InTrieste
The Sistiana overpass, a critical artery for the flow of traffic in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, reopened just in time for this weekend’s Barcolana, Trieste’s famed regatta.
The historic event draws thousands of visitors each year, and the reopening of the overpass comes as a relief to local authorities and drivers, easing congestion and preventing large traffic flows from passing through the heart of Sistiana.
Regional Infrastructure Councillor Cristina Amirante hailed the reopening as a pivotal step in improving traffic conditions ahead of the Barcolana, saying that the overpass provides a much-needed direct connection via State Road 14 towards Trieste. “This is particularly crucial during events like this weekend, when visitor numbers and traffic volumes soar,” Amirante said.
The overpass, which spans the A4 highway, serves as an essential link between the coastal town of Sistiana and the regional capital, Trieste. For six months, the structure underwent a complete rebuild as part of a €2 million project led by the regional company Fvg Strade, which was charged with completing the work. The reopening marks the end of years of anticipation for local residents, as the project had been delayed since its initial proposal in 2012.
While the overpass is open to traffic, some restrictions will remain in place temporarily. Vehicles will only be allowed on one lane in each direction, with a speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour, allowing final construction touches to be completed in the coming weeks.
Councillor Amirante credited Fvg Strade for the efficiency of its work, particularly given the pressing timeline ahead of the regatta. “They deserve recognition for guaranteeing the reopening just in time for this important Trieste event,” she said.
Simone Bortolotti, president of Fvg Strade, echoed Amirante’s praise, expressing gratitude to the company’s New Works Division for its dedication. “Their professionalism and commitment have been instrumental in ensuring this key infrastructure was ready ahead of schedule,” Bortolotti said.
While final works will necessitate some brief suspensions of circulation, the reopening is a significant milestone for the region, especially during one of the busiest weekends of the year for Trieste.
The Barcolana, one of the largest sailing regattas in the world, is expected to draw thousands of spectators and participants to Trieste this weekend, as it has since its inception in 1969. With the overpass now in operation, local authorities are hopeful that the event will run smoothly, despite the increase in traffic.
The revamped overpass is expected to significantly improve long-term traffic flow in the area, serving as a vital link in the region’s transportation network.
