On February 14, 2025, significant events unfolded on Viale dei Mille in Rimini as three pine trees were removed due to safety concerns. This decisively marked the response of the municipal administration to potential risks posed by the aging trees during sidewalk renovation works.
It began as part of the planned refurbishing of sidewalks, particularly between Viale Bassini and Viale Abba. During the course of the works, the administration detected inclinations in three pine trees, raising alarms about their stability. To proactively address these concerns, the administration, supported by qualified agronomists, conducted traction tests to evaluate the trees' stability, as mandated by the city's Tree Risk Management Plan.
The municipal administration reported, "Le piante erano risultate sufficientemente stabili a seguito delle analisi," which translates to, "The trees were deemed sufficiently stable following the analyses.” Despite the initial assessments, the nature of construction within the trees' proximity dictated the need for precautionary measures. One of the trees, deemed at risk due to its size and position, was preemptively cut down to mitigate potential threats to pedestrian safety.
Unexpectedly, early on the same morning, another pine came crashing down, obstructing the entire roadway and even interfering with the nearby Metromare route. The sudden collapse prompted immediate action; local police were called to the scene as traffic came to a standstill.
Following the first tree’s removal, officials feared for the stability of the third remaining tree. Without the support of the adjacent pines, its structural integrity was compromised. The municipal administration, consulting with Geat, the company responsible for managing public greenery, decided to also remove the third tree as it posed similar risks to public safety.
Watchful of the growing concern over the trees' removal, Councilor Stefano Caldari of the opposition commented, "La forte preoccupazione di eventuali crolli per la recisione delle radici oggi è diventata certezza," voicing residents' frustrations and fears over potential hazards from the tree removals.
This incident exemplifies the fragility of urban greenery and highlights the increasing importance of proactive measures to safeguard both trees and the safety of citizens. City officials emphasized their commitment to ensuring the well-being of pedestrians and vehicles through carefully considered interventions.
Going forward, the municipality plans to replace the removed trees using planting techniques aimed at ensuring both stability and healthy growth. They expressed optimism for the completion of sidewalk renovations, promising significantly improved accessibility and safety for both pedestrians and road traffic.
While concerns over the removals linger among some community members, the Rimini municipal administration is taking every effort to respect both the urban tree canopy and public safety standards. The overall ambition is to balance maintaining the city’s green heritage with the necessary safety measures dictated by infrastructural demands.
Through collaboration with agricultural experts and green management specialists, the administration seeks to maintain the vitality of Rimini's public spaces, demonstrating resilience and responsiveness to the challenges of urban forestry.