Railway garden in Balerna: a new sustainable green space (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• Railway Garden inaugurated in Balerna
• Unique of its kind in Switzerland
• Open to all with gardens for rent

Key facts

• What: Inauguration of the Railway Garden
• When: Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM
• Where: Via Stazione, Balerna
• Who: Municipality of Balerna and SBB
• Amount: Area of over 3,000 square meters

The Railway Garden of Balerna is finally a reality. A project that sees the collaboration between the Municipality of Balerna and the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has led to the creation of a sustainable area unique throughout Switzerland. The official inauguration will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM and will be an opportunity to discover and experience this new green space dedicated to the community. The garden, located in Via Stazione, has been described as 'unique of its kind' thanks to the skillful reuse of SBB materials for the furnishings.

The area of over 3,000 square meters includes not only green spaces, but also a communal orchard, relaxation and aggregation areas with tables and benches. The urban gardens, on the other hand, are reserved for those who have taken the space on rent. The inauguration event will see the participation of various authorities, including Adv. Luca Pagani, mayor of Balerna, Roberta Cattaneo, director Region South SBB, Ermes Fiori, SBB project manager, and Enrico Sassi, landscape architect. This will be followed by an aperitif offered.

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Operational details

Practical Analysis: Implications for Cross-Border Workers

The Balerna Railway Garden is not just a new green space, but a concrete opportunity for cross-border workers living and working in Ticino. The possibility of accessing a sustainable and well-maintained area is an added value for those living in a cross-border context. Furthermore, the presence of urban gardens for rent could be an interesting opportunity for those who wish to cultivate fresh and quality products, thus contributing to a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.

Integration and Socialization

For cross-border workers, integration into the local community is a fundamental aspect. The Balerna Railway Garden offers an additional opportunity to socialize and meet new people. Participating in events such as the inauguration can be a way to make new friendships and strengthen ties with the local community.

Sustainability and Healthy Lifestyle

Sustainability is an increasingly important issue for cross-border workers. The Balerna Railway Garden represents an example of how it is possible to create functional and welcoming green spaces without waste. For those interested in a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle, the possibility of cultivating their own urban gardens could be an interesting opportunity.

Rental Opportunities

For those interested in renting one of the urban gardens, it is important to contact the Balerna Municipality for detailed information on the rental procedures and costs. There may be facilities for cross-border workers, but it is necessary to verify directly with the municipal administration.

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Key points

Action: how to participate and what to do

The inauguration of the Balerna Railway Garden is an event open to everyone and represents an opportunity to discover a new sustainable green space. To participate, simply show up on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Via Stazione, Balerna. It is advisable to arrive a little early to secure a spot.

Procedure for renting urban gardens

For those interested in renting one of the urban gardens, it is necessary to follow a few steps. First of all, it is important to contact the Municipality of Balerna for detailed information on the rental procedures and costs. There may be benefits for cross-border workers, but it is necessary to verify this directly with the municipal administration.

Required documents

For the rental of urban gardens, some documents may be required. Among these, the following might be necessary:

• Identity document
• Residence permit
• Tax identification number
• Documentation relating to residence in Ticino

Costs and payment methods

The costs for renting urban gardens are not yet specified. It is necessary to contact the Municipality of Balerna for detailed information. There may be benefits for cross-border workers, but it is necessary to verify this directly with the municipal administration. The payment methods are not yet specified.

Conclusion

The inauguration of the Balerna Railway Garden represents an opportunity to discover a new sustainable green space and actively participate in community life. For those interested in renting one of the urban gardens, it is necessary to contact the Municipality of Balerna for detailed information on the rental procedures and costs.

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