Ticosa: 1000 parking spaces for cross-border workers, Acinque speeds up project (cross-border guide)

Context

TL;DR

• Municipality of Como sent 33-page document to Acinque for Ticosa area project.
• Acinque proposed 1,000 parking spaces, photovoltaic coverage, and commercial spaces.
• Project aims to improve mobility for cross-border workers between Como and Ticino.

Key facts

• Document Length: 33 pages
• Parking Spaces: Around 1,000
• Project Location: Ticosa area, outskirts of Como
• Photovoltaic Coverage: Included in the project proposal
• Commercial Spaces: Limited commercial spaces included
• Project Timeline: Potential relief for commuters as early as 2027
• Cross-Border Impact: Improved traffic management for cross-border workers
• Original Proposal Date: January 2024

The Municipality of Como has sent Acinque a 33-page document outlining the future of the Ticosa area, a strategic location on the outskirts of the city. Mayor Alessandro Rapinese emphasized the need for a prompt response: 'Now we need an answer,' the mayor stated.

The multi-utility company, which had already been involved in the joint presentation with the municipal administration in January 2024, had proposed a project including the construction of around 1,000 parking spaces, a photovoltaic-covered parking area, some commercial spaces, and a review of the surrounding road network. In an official statement, Acinque reaffirmed its commitment: ‘Acinque is determined to implement the intervention in agreement with the local authority and confirms its interest in the Ticosa project.’

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Operational details

The redevelopment of the Ticosa area is not just about parking spaces—it’s an opportunity to redefine mobility between Como and Ticino, with direct implications for cross-border workers. Currently, daily commuters crossing the border face structural issues: insufficient parking, congested traffic, and a lack of integrated solutions between the two sides of the border.

Before vs After: what changes for cross-border workers

Before the Ticosa project:

• Insufficient and often unauthorized parking in surrounding areas
• Chaotic traffic, especially during morning and evening rush hours
• Lack of sustainable mobility alternatives between Como and Ticino
• Prolonged waiting times to find a parking spot

After the project is completed:

• Around 1,000 dedicated parking spaces with photovoltaic coverage for sustainable energy management
• Revised road network around the area to improve traffic flow
• Possible integration with local public transport services
• Reduction in unauthorized parking in restricted areas

Concrete scenarios: what could happen

If the project proceeds according to the timeline announced by Acinque, cross-border workers could see partial relief from mobility issues as early as 2027. However, the timeline will depend on how quickly the Municipality and the company reach a final agreement. Delays could mean continued inconvenience for commuters, with potential knock-on effects on travel times.

Another critical factor will be the project’s real integration with existing infrastructure. For example, the photovoltaic coverage of parking spaces could be a first step toward more sustainable mobility—but only if accompanied by policies incentivizing public transport use or car-sharing solutions.

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Key points

For cross-border commuters who cross the border between Lombardy and Ticino on a daily basis, the redevelopment of the Ticosa area represents a concrete hope for improving mobility conditions. But what do workers need to know to prepare for any changes? And what practical steps will they have to face?

Step 1: Monitor the evolution of the project

The first step is to keep up to date with the decisions that will be made in the coming months. Acinque and the Municipality of Como will have to define in detail the technical and legal aspects of the project. Cross-border commuters can follow developments through: - Official press releases from the municipal administration of Como - Ads from Acinque on company channels - Local news on newspapers such as Frontaliere Ticino

Step 2: Assess the impact on your routine

If the project goes ahead, cross-border commuters will have to consider how this will affect their travels. In particular: - Parking times: The Ticosa area could become a strategic solution for those who work in Como or the surrounding area. - Rates and accessibility: It is not yet specified whether the use of the parking lots will be free or paid, and under what conditions. - Integration with public transport: The redevelopment could include public transport services, but there are no details at this time.

Step 3: Plan alternatives

Even if the project comes to fruition quickly, it is advisable to have a plan B. For example: - Car-sharing: Evaluate the registration for car-sharing services between Como and Ticino. - Public transport: Check if there will be improvements in the bus or train routes that connect the two areas. - Alternative routes: Explore less busy routes to get to work.

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