Exciting news! The construction of a new cycling and pedestrian path from Monte Ciocci (Balduina) to Valle Aurelia, then to the Gelsomino walkway, and finally to San Pietro is set to begin on June 20th. This path aims to enhance accessibility for pilgrims arriving by bike or on foot in time for the Jubilee celebrations.
Screenshot from Google Maps
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The initial phase of construction will involve road closures in August to allow for the necessary work, which is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2025. This phase will see the path connecting to Via Nicolò V, between Via Aurelia and Viale Vaticano, just a stone’s throw away from the Vatican walls.
“In August, certain roads will be closed for sandblasting and other interventions, taking about a month,” announced Rome’s Mobility Councillor, Eugenio Patanè, during a Jubilee committee meeting chaired by Councilor Dario Nanni.
“The construction is not just surface-level improvements; there are also works on the artistic elements along the cycling and pedestrian path. The connection to the Gelsomino walkway adds great value to the route,” added Patanè.
“We are now focusing on starting construction for the connections to the San Pietro and Valle Aurelia stations, as well as the Gelsomino walkway. The plan is to have the two farmhouses at the entrance to the tunnel near the Vatican serve as information and reception points, allowing visitors to leave their backpacks or take a pit stop for a shower before entering San Pietro. The work doesn’t end with the Jubilee; there needs to be a continuation for a project that grows in significance and gains national and international recognition,” stated Anna Donati, President of Rome Mobility Services.
Patanè acknowledged the challenges arising in connecting Monte Ciocci to the cycling and pedestrian bridge through a complex route. “The connection between the bridge and the cycle path can be improved; we face both design and financial difficulties, but nothing is impossible. We saw the Jubilee as an opportunity to showcase our monumental and environmental beauties,” concluded the Councillor.
The Rome Capital website dedicated to Jubilee projects states:
The project aims to create a cycling and pedestrian path approximately 1,100 meters long, connecting the Monte Mario – Monte Ciocci cycle path to San Pietro. The route will pass through the Monte Ciocci Urban Park, utilizing the disused “Valle Aurelia” railway bridge, including a tunnel section and Via Nicolò V, leading to the “Gelsomino walkway” along the Vatican railway line.
