Brt Perugia: the stop in via Chiusi and the word to the Ministry
The Perugia BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) project, intended to connect Castel del Piano with Via Sicilia, near the Fontivegge station, has undergone a significant change. In fact, the part relating to the section of via Chiusi, which goes from the new roundabout on the San Vetturino road to the Donato Fezzuoglio roundabout, has been removed from the executive project. The decision was taken to obtain authorization from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, as reported in the recent resolution of the municipal council. This is written by the Messaggero dell’Umbria.
This modification is the result of the long mobilization of residents and local associations, concerned about the project’s impact on urban greenery. Assemblies and signs posted along Via Chiusi underlined the need to protect existing trees. The municipal resolution highlights that the objective of this review is to enhance the arboreal heritage, going beyond mere legal obligations. The aim is to balance the felled tree species with new plantings, thus increasing the environmental benefits deriving from the construction of the Metrobus.
The revision of the route, while preserving the transport parameters necessary for ministerial financing, must be approved by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. Only after this approval will the Municipality be able to start the operational phase of the construction sites. Meanwhile, preparations have already begun with the cleanup of any war remnants along the line, a phase that is still underway.
The Perugia Metrobus project, financed with PNRR funds for a total of 111 million euros, involves the introduction of 13 new 18-metre Man Lion’s City buses, articulated and electric, with rechargeable batteries at the stops. Eight of these vehicles will always be operational, while the remaining will be ready for use at the new Vestricciano depot. With a white design on a red background, the buses will depict the main symbols of Perugia, with the griffin in the foreground.
According to estimates presented during a meeting published in San Sisto, the Metrobus vehicles will be able to transport 750 passengers per hour in each direction, with a forecast of 16,500 daily users at full capacity, initially estimated between 10,000 and 12,000. The area served is densely populated and full of services, with particular attention to the Santa Maria della Misericordia hospital complex, where two stops are planned.
