Construction on the A9: Disruptions at Border Crossings
Work on the A9 at the Fati viaduct: traffic jams and detours until Ascension Day. Here's how to manage your travels.
Contesto
Traffic chaos at the Italian-Swiss border: starting next Monday, extraordinary maintenance work will affect the Fati viaduct on the A9, between the Monte Quarcino tunnel and the Lago di Como exit. Autostrade per l’Italia has announced that this will be the 'final phase' of a structural modernization project, with the aim of completing it by Ascension Day. The work includes road surface repairs and the installation of a new water drainage system. This will lead to a lane shift, with traffic reduced to one lane in each direction for most of the day. To minimize disruptions during peak hours, two lanes will be open from 5 AM to 10 AM toward Switzerland and from 4 PM to 7 PM toward Milan. However, estimated travel times are already raising concerns, with the risk of long queues at major crossings, including Brogeda and Chiasso. Additionally, during the nights between February 28 and March 1, the section between Como Centro and Chiasso will be completely closed, with mandatory detours via local roads.
Dettagli operativi
Impacts on Cross-Border Workers This construction poses yet another challenge for the approximately 80,000 cross-border workers who commute daily through the border crossings to reach Ticino. The usual traffic jams could worsen, especially during peak hours. For those using the A9, Autostrade per l’Italia recommends planning trips with potential delays in mind and considering alternative routes, such as the Gaggiolo or Ponte Tresa crossings. However, it's important to note that these alternatives may also experience congestion. For those relying on public transport, TILO trains offer a viable alternative, but it's crucial to monitor for any disruptions. If driving is necessary, consider revising your daily routes using our interactive border map, which provides real-time traffic updates and waiting times at customs. ## Recommended tools For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.
Punti chiave
Practical Tips to Cope with Disruptions 💡 To minimize the impact of the A9 construction work, consider adopting the following strategies: - Plan your trips to avoid peak traffic hours. - Consider parking near an Italian train station and continuing your journey to Ticino via TILO trains. - Monitor real-time traffic conditions using our cross-border traffic history. - If you work remotely, discuss the possibility of agreeing on remote workdays with your employer. ⚠️ Don't underestimate the economic impact of these delays: calculate the extra fuel costs or potential detour expenses using our commuter transport calculator. This situation once again highlights the importance of shared infrastructure planning between Italy and Switzerland. Stay updated on further developments and practical advice here on 'Frontaliere Ticino'. Source: Ticinonline, February 26, 2026.