by MK
The word of the day for the Trieste City Council was “renovation” as the council presented its accomplishments in 2024 and looked towards a prosperous 2025.
The year 2025 is expected to bring significant changes for Trieste as plans progress to transform its historic Porto Vecchio (“Old Port”) into a multifunctional hub known as Porto Vivo (“Living Port”). During an end-of-year press conference held in Warehouse 26, members of the mayor’s top team, led by Mayor Roberto Di Piazza, outlined redevelopment projects aimed at revitalizing the area.
“We’re launching the construction of padel and tennis courts. No other city has an area like this,” the mayor said. Councilors highlighted the collaborative efforts contributing to the Porto Vecchio project.
From Historic Port to Urban Oasis
The redevelopment is already underway, with contributions from councilors managing various aspects of the initiative. The final designs for the Sports Citadel, a major component of the project, have been completed. Located between Park Bovedo and the Congress Center, construction is set to begin in January.
“The Urban Linear Park is another milestone,” Everest Bertoli, financial councilor, said, referencing plans for pedestrian pathways and green spaces aimed at improving the area’s accessibility and appeal.
Looking ahead, council members noted the strategic relocation of regional government employees to Porto Vecchio. This initiative is expected to free up existing administrative buildings in the city center, creating opportunities for new residential developments. “San Francesco and Carducci streets will be free again for our citizens,” added the mayor.
Infrastructure Takes Center Stage
Infrastructure projects were a key focus of the 2024 review. Among the highlights was the planned restart of the Opicina tram, a cherished element of Trieste’s transportation history. Councilor for Transportation Michele Babuder acknowledged public anticipation while noting that details on the service’s structure remain under consideration.
“Trieste Trasporti will manage it, and the ticket price will remain the same,” Babuder confirmed. “I’m also very excited that the works in Barcola have just finished, 47 days before the actual deadline.”
Meanwhile, the controversial cable car project received limited attention. While government funding has been secured—through the reallocation of resources from discontinued infrastructure initiatives—its future remains a subject of community discussion.
Repaving the Heart of the City
Mayor Dipiazza and council members also announced plans to repave Piazza Unità d’Italia, Trieste’s main square. The project will partially rely on funds from the sale of Palazzo Carciotti, a neoclassical building, to the insurance company Generali. The council emphasized the importance of maintaining the square’s historical significance while modernizing its infrastructure.
A Vision for the Future
As Trieste prepares for 2025, the City Council’s vision reflects a balance between honoring the city’s rich heritage and pursuing forward-looking development. From the transformation of Porto Vecchio to the revival of the Opicina tram, Trieste is positioning itself as a dynamic city on the Adriatic, blending history, innovation, and sustainability.
