Taranto's Multimodal Interchange Sets New Standards in Environmental Sustainability

Italian Taranto is on the brink of an eco-friendly makeover with its latest transport project, spearheaded by Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI).

This initiative is transforming Taranto’s station into a multimodal interchange, a move aimed at linking bus, rail, and car transport more efficiently and sustainably. With a budget of nearly EUR 66 million, the project promises a fresh passenger building, a revamped bus terminal, and a sustainable parking setup. This effort marks a significant step towards reducing the city's notorious pollution levels by encouraging public transport use.

RFI is pulling out all the stops to ensure the Taranto interchange sets a benchmark in environmental design, targeting four major green certifications, including LEED and the European DNSH standard. These measures reflect a broader commitment to sustainable urban planning, emphasizing water conservation, waste reduction, and energy efficiency. Specifically, the project champions innovative construction methods and digital design (BIM) to minimize its carbon footprint and streamline the user experience.

"More than just another transport project, Taranto’s multimodal station is the emblem of a modern programme to transform existing infrastructure into sustainable buildings, with the highest standards of sustainability in both design and operation," says Roberto Lodola, Project Manager at Systra Italy, adding that the delivery of the new multimodal facilities and the buildings is scheduled for 2026.

The redevelopment is a direct response to Taranto's urgent environmental challenges. Known for its industrial pollution, the city's refurbishment through this project is a critical move towards cleaner air and a healthier community.