Roman drivers received a significant reprieve on Monday with the opening of a new underpass along the Tiber River near the Vatican, concluding 450 days of traffic disruptions. This development is expected to alleviate congestion in what has become Rome’s largest pedestrian area.
The underpass is part of a broader initiative as Rome prepares for the anticipated influx of 32 million visitors during the 2025 Jubilee, a significant event in the Roman Catholic Church that occurs every 25 years and emphasizes faith, penance, and forgiveness.
Local sentiments regarding the changes are mixed. Rome's mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, described the completion of numerous public works as a "miracle," while some residents, like medical student Martina Battista, expressed frustration over personal hardships, including eviction from her apartment due to landlord decisions related to the Jubilee.
Mayor Gualtieri highlighted the Jubilee as an opportunity to enhance the city, aiming for a greener and more inclusive environment with extensive projects underway. However, the surge in pilgrims is anticipated to create challenges, particularly as ongoing construction has led to detours and traffic jams, exacerbating local frustrations.
Rome faces difficulties balancing the needs of its 2.75 million residents with the 21 million tourists who visited this year. The housing market has been notably affected, with many landlords opting for short-term rentals, leading to increased rental prices and reduced availability. Battista reported a significant increase in her rent and a lengthy search for housing.
In the upscale shopping district of Via del Corso, vendor Anwar Hossain voiced concerns about his housing situation, stating that the Jubilee has negatively impacted many families. As tourists flock to the city, locals feel increasingly priced out and overwhelmed by the influx.
Historic neighborhoods, once known for their traditional trades, have transformed into tourist-centric areas filled with souvenir shops and cafes, altering the character of the city. Michele Campisi, president of the heritage group Italia Nostra, remarked on the paradox of tourists changing the city rather than the other way around.
While the city government acknowledges the challenges posed by the Jubilee, Mayor Gualtieri emphasized that the event is a longstanding tradition, and the focus should be on managing the influx effectively. In preparation, city officials have established a board to monitor price increases linked to the event.
Concerns about rising prices and potential crime increases have been raised, particularly in neighborhoods near train stations where pilgrims are expected to arrive. Local leaders have called for improved security measures, and the mayor assured that funds have been allocated for enhanced safety protocols, including the use of artificial intelligence for real-time monitoring.
Despite the emphasis on security, some business owners worry that measures intended to manage the influx of pilgrims may further harm their operations, which have already suffered due to ongoing construction. Archbishop Rino Fisichella acknowledged the challenges faced by locals but maintained that the outcome would be a more livable and ecologically sound city.
As preparations continue, Fisichella expressed optimism that Rome is ready to welcome the anticipated wave of pilgrims.