Community-Driven Change: “Neighborhoods in Common” Launches Campaign

With the Community Territory Participation (CTP) elections slated for June 28th, Ancona is witnessing the emergence of a new force in local politics.The “Neighborhoods in Common” list recently presented its comprehensive program at a public assembly held at the Theater of San Cosma. This initiative, supported by councilors from “Another Idea of the Neighborhood” within CTP 1, aims to forge a unified platform based on the very assemblies that have been instrumental in community engagement over the past six years.

Addressing Key Issues: Mobility, Environment, and Resident Well-being

The program put forth by “Neighborhoods in Common” tackles several critical issues facing Ancona’s residents:

Rethinking Urban Mobility

The list proposes a progressive expansion of pedestrian zones and Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL), notably in the guasco and capodimonte areas. This includes boosting public transportation options, such as night buses connecting the city center to the outskirts.The plan also emphasizes optimizing existing park-and-ride facilities to alleviate congestion in the historic center’s narrow streets, especially during weekends.Moreover, the group advocates for reserved parking spaces for residents in areas affected by ongoing construction, such as Santo Stefano, Capodimonte, and Guasco, starting from Lungomare Vanvitelli. They also seek an agreement with the university to allow Cardeto residents to use the ‘Economy’ parking lot during off-peak hours, alongside stricter enforcement against illegal parking in the historic center.they are pushing for the removal of a crane at the Ex stucco construction site to restore the road network.

Combating Air Pollution: A Call for Transparency and action

Air quality is a major concern, particularly pollution stemming from port activities and heavy traffic. Citing past studies, “Neighborhoods in Common” highlights Ancona’s concerning pollution levels.

Studies conducted between 2013 and 2019 revealed that Ancona recorded average values three times higher for PM2.5 and double for nitrogen dioxide compared to the limits established by the WHO at the end of 2021.

these levels, they argue, pose serious risks to public health, perhaps contributing to premature deaths. The group is advocating for the relocation of the basic control unit, a census monitoring station within the national network, from the Citadel to an urban area closer to the port. They argue that its current location underestimates pollution levels.They also want industrial control units near the port to monitor pollutants released by shipyards. The list firmly opposes the construction of the Clementino pier, which would shift naval traffic closer to residential areas.

Enhancing Urban Spaces: Green Initiatives and Accessibility

The program also prioritizes urban green spaces, aesthetic improvements, infrastructure maintenance, and the removal of architectural barriers to improve accessibility for all residents.

community Voices: Concerns and Proposals from Residents

During the public assembly, outgoing CTP 1 President Patrizia Vaoncini emphasized the importance of community participation and highlighted specific concerns raised by residents.One key issue was the proposed redevelopment of Park San Martino, which residents fear will significantly reduce parking spaces available to them. Concerns were also raised about a planned exit from a parking lot in Via torrioni, which could create a new traffic route in a currently pedestrianized area.

The discussion also touched on an ordinance affecting Via del Cardeto and Via Matteotti, which could lead to a substantial reduction in parking spaces to accommodate construction vehicles for the Cardeto Parco project. Residents are requesting a temporary suspension of the ordinance on weekends and days when the vehicles are not in use. Moreover, young people are calling for dedicated public spaces to meet and socialize. Noise pollution in Piazza Pertini, particularly during events, was also a major concern for residents, with complaints extending as far as Via palestro.

Expert Perspectives and Calls for Unity

Lidia Mangani, a long-time figure in Ancona’s left-wing politics, emphasized the need for timely responses from the Municipality to resident inquiries submitted via certified email (PEC). she also reiterated the importance of reserved parking spaces for residents in construction zones.Municipal consultant and architect Riccardo Picciafuoco suggested that implementing a ZTL in Capodimonte could be the key to resolving traffic issues in the area. Councilor Carlo Maria Pesaresi urged residents to unite behind a single list in the CTP elections to amplify their voice and ensure greater participation.