by InTrieste
The Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) region of Italy is set to undertake a series of road improvement and safety projects totaling approximately 20 million euros, according to a recent announcement by Cristina Amirante, the region’s Councilor for Infrastructure and Territory. This investment aims to enhance road safety, improve transportation efficiency, and maintain key infrastructure across twelve critical points in the region.
The funding, derived from both the summer and autumn budget adjustments, will enable FVG Strade, the region’s road management agency, to address a backlog of maintenance needs and add improvements to some of the region’s busiest thoroughfares. The projects are expected to benefit the region’s residents, visitors, and businesses by providing smoother commutes, safer routes, and improved access to popular destinations, including the winter sports haven of Zoncolan.
“Each project has been carefully considered to address specific regional priorities and safety concerns,” said Councillor Amirante. “From viaduct and tunnel repairs to road safety features like roundabouts and pedestrian walkways, we are committed to enhancing mobility and safety across the region.”
High-Priority Infrastructure Repairs in 2025
The largest allocation, at over 5 million euros, will go towards the maintenance and full restoration of the Pontebba viaduct along State Road 13. Located in a mountainous area known for its challenging weather conditions, the viaduct has required frequent upkeep. Safety work has already been carried out to reopen one lane, but the upcoming project will provide a more comprehensive restoration to extend the structure’s longevity. The region has also designated 1.2 million euros for maintenance of the Fara tunnel in Valcellina, where adjustments are needed to meet enhanced safety standards.
For Zoncolan, a key destination in Friuli Venezia Giulia’s winter tourism industry, the region will allocate 250,000 euros toward expanding and upgrading parking facilities. This upgrade aims to accommodate the increasing flow of visitors expected for the upcoming ski season, boosting both local tourism and the region’s overall appeal as a winter sports destination.
Roundabouts and Road Network Upgrades
Among the most visible changes will be the construction of several new roundabouts, which are set to replace older traffic light systems and T-intersections at key points along State Road 13, State Road 464 near Martignacco, and near the Redona entrance along SR 552. These roundabouts are designed to improve traffic flow, reduce waiting times, and significantly enhance road safety, according to traffic studies commissioned by FVG Strade.
The largest of these planned road network upgrades is the requalification and expansion of SR 355 “of Val Degano,” an important corridor connecting the towns of Comeglians and Rigolato. An initial 5.5 million euros has been allocated for this project’s first phase.
Cycling and Pedestrian Connectivity
Recognizing the region’s growing demand for pedestrian and cycling routes, the FVG government has included projects that improve accessibility for non-motorized travel. This includes a pedestrian and cycling bridge along SR 251 “of Val di Zoldo and Val Cellina” to connect the town of Corva in Azzano Decimo with Pordenone. In addition to the bridge’s construction, the project includes the installation of modern lighting to ensure safety after dark, with 100,000 euros budgeted for the initial design phase.
Additional improvements include sidewalks along SR 56 through the town of San Lorenzo Isontino, which will make it safer for pedestrians to navigate this busy stretch. The region has allocated 60,000 euros for these walkways, part of a broader initiative to support sustainable and active transportation options.
Connecting Roads to Boost Economic Access
In further efforts to ease travel within the region, FVG has planned several new connector roads. These include an upgrade to the route linking Sequals and Meduno, which will involve a bypass from SR 177 to SR 552 north of Solimbergo. Meanwhile, the design and initial stages of a one-million-euro connector between Via Nuova di Corva in Pordenone and the A28 motorway are underway, with the goal of reducing traffic congestion and improving access to regional economic centers.
With an estimated total of 13.5 million euros earmarked for these infrastructural projects, Councillor Amirante emphasized the importance of supporting the region’s diverse transportation needs while keeping local communities safe and connected.
“These projects are more than just infrastructural investments,” said Amirante. “They are about building a sustainable future for Friuli Venezia Giulia — ensuring our roads are resilient, accessible, and capable of supporting both daily life and economic growth.”
FVG Strade is expected to break ground on many of these projects in early 2025, with the viaduct maintenance in Pontebba, tunnel upgrades, and first phases of road improvements among the high-priority projects scheduled for next year.
