New Parking Garage Offers Hope for Taranto‘s Business District
The heart of Taranto is poised for a revitalizing transformation with the planned construction of a multi-storey car park in the city’s bustling village district. This long-awaited project, funded through the Italian government’s cohesion and development funds, promises much-needed relief for a business sector struggling against commercial decline and the ongoing challenge of finding parking.
Francesca Intermite, President of Confesercenti Taranto – Casaimpresa, hailed the news as a vital step forward for the city’s economic and social well-being. “What better news,” she exclaimed, “to counter the risk of commercial and social desertification of the city centre? What better contribution for the trade sector, which has been truly struggling in recent years amidst a seemingly unstoppable crisis? What better advantage for tourism, given the centrality of the village area?”
The new parking facility comes at a crucial time,
with the imminent start of construction on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system poised to further reduce parking availability. “These construction sites will lead to the loss of hundreds of additional parking spaces along the entire route, including some important commercial areas like the village,” Intermite explained.
She emphasized the urgency of accelerating the planning and construction phases of the car park, highlighting the need to “prepare the city for the reception relating to the holding of the Mediterranean games” and ensure unparalleled access for both residents and visitors.
Intermite expressed hope that the €11 million project will be swiftly accompanied by other crucial developments, including the acquisition of the car park at the Mezzacapo Barracks and the raising of the one located on via Oberdan.
While focusing on the immediate need for parking solutions as the city prepares to welcome the Mediterranean Games, Intermite also stressed the importance of prioritizing sustainable transportation options.
“As for the BRT interchange areas,” she concluded, “it will be important to adequately strengthen them because they will take on a strategic importance in the organization of sustainable city mobility. On these vital issues, which directly impact the survival of our urban commercial system, we will shortly ask for an in-depth discussion with the competent structures of the municipal administration.
It will also be essential to define a precise timetable of the actions to be carried out so that they can be carefully monitored. Ultimately, the multi-storey car park is welcome.! We are increasingly convinced that improving business conditions also means improving the quality of life for the people of Taranto.”
What are the projected economic benefits of the new parking garage for Taranto’s businesses?
## Taranto Businesses See Hope in New Parking Garage
**(Interviewer):** Francesca, the news about the new parking garage in the village district has stirred up a lot of excitement. Can you tell us why this project is so crucial for Taranto’s business sector?
**(Francesca Intermite, President of Confesercenti Taranto – Casaimpresa):** Absolutely! For years, we’ve struggled with a lack of parking, which has severely impacted local businesses. Customers simply have nowhere to park conveniently, leading them to shop elsewhere. This new multi-storey car park is a game-changer. It addresses a critical need and will hopefully draw people back to the heart of our city.
**(Interviewer):** This project is funded by the Italian government. What message does this send to the city of Taranto?
**(Francesca Intermite):** It shows that the government recognizes the challenges we face and is committed to investing in our future. This parking garage isn’t just about providing more space for cars; it’s about revitalizing the village district, boosting our economy, and creating a more vibrant and welcoming city center for both residents and tourists.
**(Interviewer):** How do you see this project benefiting tourism in Taranto?
**(Francesca Intermite):** The village district is at the heart of Taranto’s tourism, full of historical sites and charming shops.
But the lack of parking has been a major deterrent for visitors. With this new parking facility, tourists will have access to the village with ease, leading to increased foot traffic and more business for local shops, restaurants, and attractions. [[1](https://www.parkingo.com/en/parking-port-taranto)]
**(Interviewer):** Thank you, Francesca, for sharing your insights on this exciting development for Taranto.
