Italy's Big Bridge Idea

Ciao amici,

Have you ever wished there was an easier way to get to Sicily? Well, in about 10 years, Italy might have one!

Last week, Italy’s government approved plans for a suspension bridge that would connect Sicily to the mainland. If completed, it would be the world’s longest suspension bridge, spanning over two miles long and include six lanes, 3 in each direction, with a subway line in the middle and pedestrian walkways on the sides.

Construction could start as soon as this Fall and if all goes smoothly, it would be completed by 2033. Supporters for the “Ponte sullo Stretto” are calling it an engineering masterpiece that will unify Italy and create thousands of jobs in the South. The “No Ponte” opposers warn that the construction will harm the environment and would be a huge waste if left incomplete or unusable.

Talks about this monumental bridge have been in and out of the headlines since the ‘70s and there are still major questions to be answered, such as how will the bridge hold up in windy conditions or seismic activity? The $15 billion bridge will be completely funded by Italian taxes, what if the money runs out?

Some are calling the bridge propaganda that is only distracting Italians from the real problems the South faces: maintaining the current infrastructure, education, unemployment and healthcare.

I would like to hear your thoughts! Can Italy really pull off this architectural feat or will it flush down the news cycle just to remerge in time for the next convenient distraction?

Keeping up to date with the news in Italy can help you connect and relate to your Italian family, friends and clients. Learn to express your thoughts and opinions in Italian with group or private lessons by Immerse Italy.

Un abbraccio,

Lisa