LECCE – The controversy surrounding Lecce's Urban Traffic Plan took center stage during a recent conference held on public transport. Despite warnings from Sgm’s president Damiano D’Autilia, political leaders from the minority party of Palazzo Carafa proceeded to utilize the city’s public bus system to discuss their concerns about the newly adopted Urban Traffic Plan for 2025-26.
D’Autilia had expressed clear disapproval, stating, "The use of buses for purposes other than public service is incompatible with the regular operation of transport..." This warning came just hours before the scheduled conference, emphasizing the potential disruption to regular service and the interests of daily commuters, who rely on these buses for their mobility needs.
The conference was intended to present details of the Urban Traffic Plan adopted by the Giunta led by Mayor Poli on December 19, 2021. Unfortunately, details about this plan were not widely disseminated to the public beforehand, prompting minority leaders to take action. Carlo Salvemini, the former mayor and one of the opposition leaders, criticized the lack of transparency, claiming, "The plan remains largely unknown to the public. We are here to clarify the upcoming measures for circulation over the next two years, as the government of the city has yet to take initiatives." His remarks highlighted the growing concern among citizens over government actions and participatory democracy.
Capoccia, the assessor to Mobility, pointed out the disconnected approach of the minority party, claiming their actions stemmed from aggressive aspirations for visibility as the regional elections approach. He stated, "The episode not only shows political isolation but also reveals the desire of minority councilors to generate media attention at the expense of meaningful dialogue on urban transport issues."
Capoccia elaborated on the need for constructive discourse, opining, "These gestures move citizens away from responsible politics and transform democratic dialogue...into mere personal attention seeking." He contrasted the current approach of the minority with the proper handling of city matters by the majority party, criticizing the lack of progress made by the previous administration on the Urban Traffic Plan.
Despite warnings, the conference continued, attracting local journalists and curious citizens. D’Autilia offered them the option to proceed with the conference near the bus terminal but reiterated the importance of maintaining focus on public service and safety, affirming, "Public transport is common property and must remain dedicated solely to community mobility needs."
The back-and-forth between minority councilors and the ruling party reflects the current political divide within Lecce. The councilors emphasized the significance of public engagement, inviting citizens and associations to partake and offer comments on the traffic plan, which is reportedly under review with public observations open until late January.
Political tensions escalated as Paolo Cairo of the Forza Italia party condemned the minority's approach, implying their disregard for public safety by convening formal discussions on buses, traditionally meant for transportation purposes. He stated, "The simple rule to avoid talking to bus drivers is meant to safeguard their attention and maintain the safety of all passengers. The lack of respect for the public transport system shown by these actions is concerning."
Despite the exemplary criticisms, the minority constituents remain persistent, intending to shine light on the new Urban Traffic Plan, which they believe is pivotal for the city’s future. The perceived necessity for transparency and active citizen participation lies at the heart of the political dialogue, as stakeholders attempt to address the pressing issues of urban mobility.
Capoccia relayed messages of hope for increasing adherence to procedural legitimacy, insisting, "The discussion of the Urban Traffic Plan must follow established regulations, ensuring transparency and public input. A sense of order must prevail over pleasantries and performative gestures." With both sides steadfast about their positions, the dynamic around Lecce's Urban Traffic Plan reveals underlying fractures within the political narrative set against its future infrastructure developments.