Variante della Tremezzina between Colonno and Menaggio… Just before Colonno, on the western side of Lake Como, there is an impressive construction site. What you see here is the ambitious infrastructure development of the Variante della Tremezzina, which is expected to be completed by April 2028. It’s worth paying attention to, as its impact on tourism, mobility, and the economy in the region will be significant.
The current and also the only The Regina road between Argegno and Colonno has become increasingly unsuitable for the growing traffic over the years. The road is narrow, winding, and not designed for today’s traffic volume, which leads to significant delays, especially in the summer. When buses and trucks have to pass each other in the narrow sections, traffic literally comes to a standstill. Too often, the route between Colonno, Sala Comacina, Ossuccio, Lenno, Mezzegra, Tremezzo, Griante, and Menaggio is simply a waste of time. Exhaust fumes and roaring engines: the traffic congestion is also far from pleasant for the residents.
Wat staat er te gebeuren? Er wordt een volledig nieuwe weg in twee rijrichtingen aangelegd (en ook twee parallel lopende veiligheidskokers) die door de massieve rotswanden loopt tussen Colonno en Griante en zo de volledige oude Reginaweg bypassed. De afstand tussen Svincolo di Colonno en Svincolo di Griante bedraagt tien kilometer. Er worden vier tunnels geboord (Galleria Comacina, Galleria Perlana, Galleria Bonzanigo en Galleria Tremezzina en twee viaducten (Ponte Perlana en Ponte Azzano. Zo’n acht kilometer rots moet worden uitgefreesd met gigantische boren. Het puin dat vrijkomt moet deels over het Comomeer worden afgevoerd via pontons omdat stortplaatsen schaars zijn. De logistieke uitdaging is enorm.
It is no surprise that the project has already faced significant delays. It began in November 2021 and was initially scheduled for completion in 2026. In 2026, Milan will host the Winter Olympics, and smooth traffic flow in the region will be essential. Italy could also take the opportunity to improve its poor reputation regarding road infrastructure in the international public eye. However, that’s not the case — the planned completion is now set for April 2028.
It is certain that the western shore of Lake Como will thrive. Traffic congestion in the villages between Colonno and Menaggio will be significantly reduced, improving the quality of life for the residents. They will be pleased with the enhanced mobility.
The region is currently a popular destination for tourists. The new road will improve accessibility, making the villages even more attractive to both residents and investors. . Nieuwe bouwprojecten, renovatieprojecten en exclusieve hotels zullen als paddestoelen uit de grond schieten. Daarom wordt verwacht dat de vastgoedprijzen in deze dorpen op termijn zullen stijgen omdat ze interessanter worden voor internationale kopers.
And this is where the problem may lie. International buyers, rising property prices, more exclusive tourism… How does the local Italian resident with limited means fit into this picture? Answers we will know in a few years.