Rome, March 12 – The Quarticciolo district, often referred to as a “red zone” due to crime and degradation, is poised for a significant transformation with an integrated plan backed by 53 million euros. This initiative, a collaborative effort between the Lazio Region and the Italian Government, aims to structurally improve the quality of life for a large number of families and citizens.
Integrated Plan for Structural Improvement
The agreement was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed by Francesco Rocca, President of the Lazio Region; Fabio Ciciliano, Extraordinary Commissioner (appointed by the Meloni Government) for infrastructural interventions and social requalification; and Orazio Campo, President of Ater Roma (public housing authority).
The total allocation of 53 million euros comprises 30 million from the regional European funds of the PR Lazio FESR 2021-2027 and 23 million from the government’s Development and Cohesion Fund 2021-2027.
The Quarticciolo district will be the focus of a series of interventions designed for integrated urban regeneration. These efforts are expected to have concrete repercussions on living conditions, access to services, the livability of public spaces, and social and economic opportunities for residents.
“This was a team effort. We have brought together resources and political will, focusing on a neighborhood abandoned for years and known more for crime news than for social strategies,” stated President Rocca. He emphasized that Quarticciolo is home to many good people whose only fault has been being subjected to abandonment and criminality.
Key Interventions and Their Impact
President Rocca highlighted the extensive scope of the project:
- Housing Recovery: 78 public housing units, currently unusable, will be recovered.
- Extraordinary Maintenance: Approximately 500 homes will undergo extraordinary maintenance.
- Accessibility: Over 300 families will benefit from work to remove architectural barriers.
- Energy Efficiency: New thermal power plants will be installed, reducing energy consumption for approximately 600 homes.
In total, interventions will be carried out on more than 1,500 housing units, benefiting approximately 2,300 inhabitants.
Construction to Begin Soon
Fabio Ciciliano noted that construction for the requalification of the buildings will commence “in a few weeks, because the tender procedures, even if accelerated and restricted, are still public. The projects are already in place.”
The joint commitment also extends to the requalification of social spaces, which will involve both the two existing play areas and the creation of an additional recreational zone. Furthermore, the plan includes a restyling of Quarticciolo Square, the securing of roads and public spaces, the construction of a new nursery school, and the renovation of school buildings, gyms, and sports facilities.
The presentation of the “Quarticciolo Project” was also attended by Vice President Roberta Angelilli and the Regional Councillor for Housing Policies, Pasquale Ciacciarelli.
Broader Context and Community Impact
This initiative comes as part of a broader effort to address urban decay and social challenges in various parts of Rome. The project aims not only to renovate physical infrastructure but also to foster a stronger sense of community and provide new opportunities for residents.
The integrated approach, combining housing improvements with enhancements to public spaces and educational facilities, is expected to create a more vibrant and secure environment for the people of Quarticciolo.
The commitment from both regional and national governments underscores the recognition of the urgent need for such interventions in areas that have historically faced significant socio-economic challenges. The focus on sustainable development and improved living conditions is a crucial step towards a more equitable and thriving urban landscape in Rome.
Source: https://roma.corriere.it/notizie/cronaca/26_marzo_12/roma-per-il-quarticciolo-53-milioni-da-regione-lazio-e-governo-riqualificazione-di-immobili-piazze-e-strade-cc5627fa-710b-4b10-8c99-b4c994607xlk.shtml
