Renovated Landmark Bridge Set to Reopen in Rome
After being damaged by a fire in 2021, Rome’s Ponte di Ferro is ready to welcome back residents and visitors on 17 March. The bridge, officially known as Ponte dell’Industria, underwent extensive renovations to enhance its structure and capacity, connecting the Ostiense and Marconi districts.
The reconstruction project, which began in July 2023, enlisted the expertise of Norwegian professionals experienced in building oil rigs, as stated by Rome mayor Roberto Gualtieri. The total cost of the project amounted to €18 million, with €13 million sourced from Jubilee funds and the remainder funded by the city.
The new Ponte dell’Industria is set to reopen soon after the fire in October 2021. Completing this high-level engineering feat in less than two years is truly remarkable.
Info https://t.co/u4mAEC87WS pic.twitter.com/rD4MDxCgl6
— Roma (@Roma) February 27, 2025
The new bridge boasts increased strength and capacity to accommodate various vehicles, including city buses, and features protected cycle lanes on both sides. Unlike its predecessor, which could only support seven tons, the upgraded structure can handle up to 30 tons, the city announced in a statement.
Additionally, the bridge will be integrated into the routes of two bus lines: the 96 from Corviale and the 780 from EUR, providing convenient transportation options for residents in the Ostiense area.
Describing the renovation as a monumental task, Gualtieri acknowledged the initial optimism for completing the project by December last year. He emphasized the rarity of constructing a complex bridge in under two years, highlighting the significance of the achievement.
Exploring the History of Ponte di Ferro
Constructed between 1862 and 1863 by a Belgian company, the 130m-long Ponte di Ferro was initially built to connect the railway line of Civitavecchia to Roma Termini railway station. The bridge’s structural components were assembled in England before being transported to Rome for final installation.
In 1911, with the inauguration of the new Trastevere station, the railway line was relocated to the Ponte San Paolo, further up the river.
The bridge’s exterior suffered severe damage during the fire on the night of 2-3 October 2021, marking a significant chapter in its 160-year history.
