by InTrieste
The Municipality of Trieste is entering a decisive moment in its history, as the City Council embarks on a three-day session to debate the future of the Porto Vecchio area. The council is set to discuss and vote on a project financing proposal submitted by the Bergamo-based Costim group, in partnership with Elmet Srl and Impresa Percassi Spa, to redevelop the historic port into a modern urban hub known as Porto Vivo.
The extraordinary sessions, scheduled for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, are expected to shape the economic, urban, and social framework of the city for the next 50 years. With meetings commencing at 2:00 PM on Monday and 9:00 AM on both Tuesday and Wednesday, the council will focus solely on the project, setting aside routine business to prioritize this pivotal decision.
Deputy Mayor Serena Tonel and other key officials inaugurated an interactive stand at the Barcolana Village earlier this week, where the public can explore the Porto Vivo project through multimedia presentations. Tonel described the space as a place where citizens can “see the Trieste of today and tomorrow,” emphasizing the importance of transparency and public engagement. The stand will remain open for an additional week after the Barcolana to encourage ongoing dialogue.
Councilor for Financial Policies and Porto Vivo, Everest Bertoli, called the council session “a date with history.” He emphasized the significance of the discussions, which come a decade after Porto Vecchio was decommissioned as a working port. “We are here to present the project to the entire city,” Bertoli said, referring to the €33 million investment that includes plans for a new Museum of the Sea and major infrastructure projects.
The redevelopment of Porto Vecchio has been a subject of long-standing debate in Trieste, and this week’s council meetings are expected to be contentious. The center-left opposition has signaled its intent to use obstructionist tactics, prolonging discussions and raising further questions about the transparency and viability of the plan.
Despite these challenges, city officials remain optimistic about the project’s transformative potential. Councillor Elisa Lodi highlighted the importance of both public and private investments in the area, including significant contributions from Italy’s national recovery and resilience plan (PNRR). “We are working hard to ensure the regeneration of Porto Vecchio, a unique urban renewal project in Europe,” Lodi said.
The outcome of this week’s discussions will not only impact the physical landscape of Trieste but will also define its role as a Mediterranean port city for decades to come. As the City Council debates the proposal, the public remains engaged, hoping the decisions made in the coming days will lead to a brighter future for Trieste.
Interviews: Serena Tonel, deputy mayor; Everest Bertoli, councilor for Financial Policies and Porto Vivo
