Rome Embraces Tactical Urbanism with ‘Spazi a Colori’ Project
Rome, March 22, 2026 – The city of Rome is embarking on a new urban regeneration project, ‘Spazi a Colori’ (Spaces of Color), which utilizes tactical urbanism to revitalize public areas. The initiative, presented by Councillor Maurizio Veloccia at the Metropolitano – Urban Center Roma, seeks to transform underutilized streets, squares, and intersections into vibrant hubs for social interaction, safety, and widespread beauty. The public announcement for proposals will remain open for two months, inviting active participation from citizens, associations, schools, and local entities.
Lightweight and Low-Cost Interventions
At the core of ‘Spazi a Colori’ is tactical urbanism, an approach that allows for rapid and cost-effective interventions in urban spaces. The project envisions lightweight and reversible changes, including anti-slip paints, movable furniture, planters, and urban art installations. This model has already seen success in Rome through initiatives like ‘school streets’ and asphalt art projects, which have demonstrably improved safety and liveability without requiring extensive structural works.
Enhancing Safety and Community Spaces
The administration’s primary goal is to reclaim neglected areas or those dominated by traffic, returning them to the community. Special attention will be given to zones lacking public spaces, areas near schools and libraries, and intersections with identified road safety issues. “We want to transform places currently occupied by cars into spaces for encounter and sustainable mobility,” explained Councillor Veloccia.
Community Participation and Shared Care
Projects submitted under ‘Spazi a Colori’ must be developed in consultation with local communities and include a program of activities to animate the spaces over time. A central element of the initiative is the ‘Collaboration Pact,’ through which citizens and the administration will share the responsibility for the management, maintenance, and ongoing use of the newly revitalized areas.
Standard Kits and Construction by 2026
To ensure uniformity and quality across all interventions, the Municipality will provide a ‘project kit’ containing urban furniture, greenery, and equipment. Each intervention is estimated to cost approximately 50,000 euros and can also be financed through sponsorships. The ambitious goal is to commence the first construction phases by the end of 2026, thereby establishing a widespread network of new ‘spaces of color’ throughout the Italian capital.
This initiative represents a significant step towards a more citizen-centric urban environment in Rome, fostering community engagement and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Source: https://www.lacapitale.it/articolo/roma-lancia-spazi-a-colori-urbanistica-tattica-per-trasformare-strade-e-piazze
