Brescia-Trento Lake Garda Tunnel Completed Phase, Opens July 29

Since Friday, the Brescia and Trentino shores of Lake Garda are accessible by land; the last rock diaphragm separating the two sections of the new tunnel connecting Riva and Limone has been demolished. Just over three months since the start of construction, the Provincia di Trento has succeeded in completing the first phase of this important project, which became necessary after the Gardesana road was buried to the north of Limone by a massive landslide.

In January, when the coastal road was cut off over a long stretch by thousands of cubic meters of material, few would have bet that in just over ninety days, using dynamite charges and drilling, one kilometer of solid rock would be excavated.

Current status and upcoming interventions

Certainly, much work remains before the tunnel can be opened to traffic, but discussions are already underway about the inauguration ceremony, which could be attended by President of the Republic Carlo Azelio Ciampi, scheduled for July 8. From early July, the tunnel could be open to alternating one-way traffic; subsequently, the most likely date is July 29, when traffic could resume without restrictions.

Meanwhile, ventilation systems, lighting, water drainage pipelines, and paving will need to be installed. The tourism operators in Limone can therefore breathe a sigh of relief.

Next phases and completion of works

The finishing works of the tunnel, according to plans, will resume in autumn and are expected to be completed definitively in the first few months of next year.