16.5m tunnel to transform Lombardy's Passo del Tonale
A 16.5 million euro tunnel will transform the Passo del Tonale. Discover the project details and its implications for traffic.
Contesto
In brief - Tunnel worth 16.5 million at the Tonale Pass - Ready by May 2028 - 715 meters of new route ## Key facts - What: Variant of the State Road 42 - When: End of works in May 2028 - Where: Tonale Pass, Lombardy - Who: Regional Council and Simico - Amount: 16.5 million euros The face of the Tonale Pass is preparing for a structural transformation. The Regional Council has given a favorable opinion on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project of the variant of the State Road 42, a strategic work managed by Simico (Infrastructures Milan Cortina 2026) aimed at solving the long-standing conflict between vehicular traffic and pedestrian flows in the heart of the ski resort. The investment for the works amounts to approximately 16.5 million euros. ### The technical project The intervention involves the creation of a new 715-meter route. The heart of the work is an artificial tunnel of 100 meters located at the Presena cable car. The plan's specifications include: - Road layout: shifting the roadbed to the north and subsequent descent into a trench. - Parking management: dismantling of parking areas on the north side and enhancement of sectors P1 and P2 on the south side. - Pedestrian safety: creation of protected paths with guard-rails to connect the village to the ski lifts, eliminating the level crossings on the SS42. - Redevelopment: the tunnel's cover will be transformed into a green area, favoring the 'reconnection' of the two sides and ensuring the continuity of the ski slopes at the foot. ### Sustainability and environmental monitoring From an ecological perspective, the project adopts a near-zero impact approach regarding earth movement: about 50,000 cubic meters of excavated material will be reused on-site. The Regional EIA Commission has impo...
Dettagli operativi
Implications for Traffic and Tourism The new tunnel at the Tonale Pass represents a fundamental step to improve traffic in one of the most touristy areas of Lombardy. The variant of the State Road 42 will not only solve traffic problems but will also make pedestrian movements safer, especially during the ski season. The creation of protected paths and the elimination of level crossings on the SS42 will make the area more accessible and safer for visitors. ### Comparison with the Previous Situation Before the intervention, the Tonale Pass was characterized by heavy traffic and chaotic road conditions, especially during peak tourist seasons. The new variant, with its 715-meter route and 100-meter artificial tunnel, will offer a more efficient and safer solution. Additionally, the redevelopment of green areas and the creation of ecological corridors will help preserve the natural environment, making the area more sustainable. ### Future Scenarios With the opening of the new tunnel, an increase in tourist flow is expected in the Tonale area. The variant of the State Road 42, along with other planned investments such as the new cable car and the designer refuge, will make the Pontedilegno-Tonale resort an even more attractive destination for ski and mountain tourism enthusiasts. Furthermore, the fluidification of traffic will contribute to improving air quality, making the area more livable for residents and more welcoming for visitors. ### Environmental Impact and Sustainability The project has paid great attention to environmental sustainability. The use of excavated material on-site and the creation of ecological corridors for local wildlife are just some of the aspects that make this intervention an example of good practice in sustainable infrastructure. The protectio...
Punti chiave
What to do for residents and tourists For residents and tourists who frequent the Tonale Pass, it's important to stay updated on the ongoing works and any changes to traffic routes. During the construction phase, there might be temporary traffic restrictions, so it's advisable to check in advance for alternative routes and the timeline of the works. Moreover, the new variant of the State Road 42 will offer new opportunities for tourism, with more modern facilities and improved services. ### Procedure to access information To stay updated on the progress of the works and any changes to traffic routes, you can consult the official website of the Lombardy Region or contact Simico, the entity responsible for the project directly. Additionally, during the ski season, it will be useful to follow the indications of the ski lifts and local accommodation facilities to avoid inconveniences and fully enjoy the new infrastructures. ### Useful tools To best plan your stay or movements in the Tonale Pass area, you can use tools such as the traffic calculator or the route comparator. These tools allow you to have a clear view of traffic conditions and choose the route most suitable for your needs. ### Conclusion The new tunnel at the Tonale Pass represents a significant investment for traffic and tourism in Lombardy. With its expected entry into operation in May 2028, a substantial improvement in the quality of life for residents and an increase in tourist flow are anticipated. To make the most of the new infrastructures, it's important to stay updated on the ongoing works and use useful tools to plan your movements. Source: comozero.it
Punti chiave
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the investment amount for the new tunnel at the Tonale Pass?
- The investment for the works amounts to approximately 16.5 million euros. This includes the construction of a new 715-meter route and a 100-meter artificial gallery.
- When will the works for the new tunnel be completed?
- The works for the new tunnel at the Tonale Pass will be completed by May 2028. Initially linked to the 2026 Olympic window, the timelines have been updated to ensure the quality and sustainability of the project.
- What are the main features of the State Road 42 variant project?
- The project includes moving the roadbed to the north, creating protected paths for pedestrians, upgrading green areas, and building ecological corridors for local wildlife. Additionally, systems for treating rainwater and acoustic mitigation plans are included.