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

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.’

The company has initiated a detailed examination of the document received from the Municipality 'to delve into the technical and legal aspects, also in relation to the original proposal submitted by the company.' The latter, jointly presented 27 months ago, had been rejected by the Municipality due to an imbalance favoring the company. The declared goal now is to finalize the operation as soon as possible, 'adding value to the territory and upgrading a strategically important area on the city’s outskirts from an urban planning and traffic perspective.'

The original project and the issues that emerged

In January 2024, Acinque and the Municipality of Como presented a shared proposal that included:

• Around 1,000 parking spaces
• Photovoltaic-covered parking area
• Limited commercial spaces
• A review of the surrounding road network

However, the attached financial plan, jointly illustrated with the municipal administration, was rejected due to the clear imbalance favoring the company, as reported by Acinque in its official statement. Now, with the 33-page document received from the Municipality, the company aims to restart technical and legal discussions to align territorial needs with the project’s economic feasibility.

The territorial context: Ticosa between Como and Ticino

The Ticosa area occupies a crucial position for cross-border workers who daily cross the Italian-Swiss border. Its redevelopment could significantly improve livability for thousands of workers commuting between Lombardy and Ticino, reducing wait times and optimizing local traffic flow. Currently, the lack of structured parking solutions is a daily issue for many cross-border commuters, who are often forced to park in unauthorized areas or endure long waits to find an available spot.

If implemented, the project could represent a turning point for both Como residents and Ticino cross-border workers, offering a concrete solution to the mobility needs of a high-density working area.

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.

Ticino’s role: opportunities and limitations

While the project is being developed on the Como side, Ticino could indirectly benefit from improved traffic management at the exit toward Como. A reduction in traffic at Ticosa could positively impact border crossings like Brogeda or Gaggiolo, where long queues often form. However, the project’s success hinges on agreements between Acinque and the Municipality of Como; without them, cross-border workers will continue to face the current challenges.

A comparison with other border regions

In the landscape of cross-border projects between Italy and Switzerland, Ticosa stands out as an interesting case study. Unlike other initiatives—such as the new Mendrisio-Varese railway line or the upgrade of SS340—this project focuses on an urban area and private mobility solutions. However, its success could pave the way for further collaborations between the two sides of the border, particularly in urban redevelopment and sustainable mobility.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

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.

Step 4: Keep an eye on deadlines

The Ticosa project could take several months to complete. Cross-border commuters should prepare for any gradual changes, without expecting immediate resolutions. In particular, it is useful to monitor: - The construction timing of the parking lots - Any access restrictions during the works - The new parking rules that could be introduced

What to do today: useful tools

For those who want to prepare now, Frontaliere Ticino offers several practical tools: - 📊 Calcolatore costi di mobilità transfrontaliera to compare current expenses and potential savings - 💡 Guida agli spostamenti tra Como e Ticino with advice on routes and alternatives - 🔍 Mappa interattiva dei valichi e parcheggi to better plan your daily commute

Source: comozero.it

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