The city of Turin is preparing to undertake significant changes to Piazza Baldissera, aiming to resolve persistent traffic issues plaguing this major thoroughfare. Commencing in 2025 under the supervision of city councilor Chiara Foglietta, the redevelopment project promises to introduce enhancements intended to ease congestion and improve overall transportation efficiency.
Foglietta, who oversees transportation initiatives within the city, underscored the urgency of intervention at Piazza Baldissera, describing it as "uno snodo viabilistico su cui dovevamo intervenire in tempi certi per risolvere i problemi di concentrazione del traffico da e verso la zona nord" (a traffic junction where we needed to intervene decisively to solve the concentration of traffic to and from the northern area). This prompt response is deemed necessary to address the increasingly problematic traffic levels experienced around the intersection.
The new plan includes the installation of six traffic lights and tram lines for the upcoming line 10, which will cut through the intersection. This overhaul is anticipated to cost approximately seven and a half million euros and is projected to proceed over 13 months, during which some disruption to normal traffic flow will inevitably occur. "Il costo sarà di sette milioni e mezzo per 13 mesi di cantiere," said Foglietta, clearly outlining the financial parameters attached to the project.
One of the key aspects of the redevelopment is the emphasis on maintaining traffic accessibility during the construction period. "Anche qui, come per via Po, la viabilità non chiuderà mai totalmente al traffico," Foglietta noted, assuring residents and commuters alike of continuous access to the area, albeit with some adjustments to traffic patterns. This stance aims to strike a balance between necessary construction work and the everyday commuting needs of Turin’s residents.
The city anticipates significant improvements to traffic dynamics as the new arrangements take effect. Foglietta confidently asserted, "La nuova soluzione permetterà di snellire i flussi di traffico in modo sensibile" (the new solution will significantly streamline traffic flow). This reflects the administration’s commitment to not only addressing current congestion but actively seeking solutions to prevent future traffic buildup.
Interestingly, this redevelopment coincides with broader urban planning initiatives, including enhancements to public transport services via the new Star 3 tram line. Foglietta shared plans for collaborative design efforts with local communities, insisting on the importance of involving citizens: "La nostra idea è proprio quella di una coprogettazione" (our idea is one of co-design). Such engagements aim to gather input about how best to implement the Star 3 line, potentially alleviating congestion during nightlife hours by redirecting heavy traffic flow.
There's also consideration for innovative parking solutions, such as the proposed Park and Ride initiative, which aims to relieve pressure on local streets. This plan would allow residents to park their vehicles at designated areas and use shuttles to navigate to nightlife spots, minimizing traffic jams and enhancing local safety. Foglietta mentions examples such as, "Con la star 1 già oggi, se lasci l'auto presso i parcheggi d'interscambio Palagiustizia e Fontanesi puoi utilizzare gratuitamente, per tutta la durata della sosta, la navetta" (with Star 1, for example, if you leave your car at the interchange parking at Palagiustizia and Fontanesi, you can use the shuttle for free during your entire stay). This model could effectively translate to success for the newer line as well.
While the city prepares for these transformative plans, Foglietta acknowledged the need for public patience during the construction phase. "Chiediamo pazienza ai torinesi" (we ask for patience from Turin residents) because the overall urban renewal process, particularly at such busy junctions, will require cooperation and adjustment from the community. The anticipated results, she believes, will vastly outweigh the short-term inconveniences.
Through thoughtful planning and community engagement, the Piazza Baldissera redevelopment project aims to deliver lasting improvements to Turin's infrastructure, establishing it as a pathway to enhanced mobility and more efficient traffic management. With every traffic light and tram line, the city moves closer to realizing its vision of improved urban living standards.
