Plan for 30 km/h Zones and Pedestrian Areas in Livorno

Objectives of the plan

We were awarded the contract to draft the “Plan for 30 km/h Zones and Pedestrian Areas in the Urban Area,” with the aim of improving safety, accessibility, and liveability in public spaces. To achieve this goal, the work was developed through an integrated approach that combined traffic calming, road network reorganisation and urban space enhancement. Furthermore, the strategy was consistent with the provisions of PUMS and Biciplan.

Methodological approach

The design covered seven priority urban areas. For each of these, the work was guided by evidence-based logic. Consequently, the space allocated to motorised traffic, the continuity of pedestrian and cycle networks, and measures to improve safety and urban quality were analysed. This approach has made it possible to construct a clear and immediately operational knowledge framework.

The three operational phases

The first phase involved mapping access points, points of interest, incidental data, the public transport network and rest areas. Subsequently, the second phase focused on design solutions for each Zone 30, assessing crossings, critical intersections and the continuity of cycle and pedestrian networks. Finally, the third phase led to the drafting of the plan, including maps, operational sheets and digital files in an interoperable format.

Safety measures and priority interventions

The design approach focused on making school environments, crowded areas and public transport hubs safer. For this reason, furnishings, signage, stops and geometric modifications have been integrated to encourage more cautious behaviour. Furthermore, each intervention was designed as part of a single system aimed at strengthening active mobility.

Squares, woonerfs and urban quality

A significant part of the plan focused on cross streets and sections that could be transformed into woonerfs, i.e. streets with priority given to pedestrians and cyclists. In fact, these solutions have been designed to enhance the social function of public space. There are seven priority areas: Garibaldi, Soffredini, Borgo San Jacopo, Villa Maria, Montebello Sud, Villa Fabbricotti and Scopaia.

A replicable model

For each area, an in-depth transport analysis was conducted. Therefore, solutions that can be replicated and adapted to other urban contexts have been defined. The end result is a scalable design model that supports the municipality in building secure, accessible networks that are consistent with sustainable mobility objectives.