New funding allocated to Lombardy’s railway infrastructure
June 28, 2026
The Italian government recently approved a substantial allocation of EUR 591.6 million to finance several road and rail infrastructure projects, with a specific focus on Lombardy. These projects are part of the comprehensive “Olympic Works Plan” designed to enhance regional connectivity in Lombardy and Veneto in anticipation of the upcoming Olympic Games. This significant investment includes EUR 287.6 million earmarked for Lombardy and EUR 304 million allocated to Veneto, with the combined total surpassing EUR 1.65 billion, combining state funding and existing resources to support these crucial developments.
Transport Minister Matteo Salvini emphasized the lasting impact of these infrastructure investments, highlighting their role in the long-term enhancement of regional transportation networks in northern Italy. The primary objective of these initiatives is to modernize railway systems to improve safety, capacity, and connectivity throughout the region.
Within Lombardy, two prominent railway projects are set to receive a total of EUR 171 million in funding, with EUR 40.4 million originating from the Investment Fund and the remaining balance secured through existing financial channels. One such project involves the elimination of grade crossings on the Milan-Tirano line (SS38), a critical route for regional mobility and tourism in the Alpine region. This initiative entails the separation of traffic levels, the replacement of level crossings with grade-separated crossings, and various infrastructure enhancements to boost safety, reduce accidents, and streamline rail traffic along this key corridor.
Another noteworthy endeavor within Lombardy is the rehabilitation of the Busto Arsizio/Gallarate/Cardano Railway Junction, which carries a total cost of EUR 105 million. This project intends to reconfigure railway infrastructure, enhance traffic capacity, improve service reliability, and minimize operational conflicts between passenger and freight trains. By focusing on enhancing the flow of rail traffic in the greater Milan metropolitan area, particularly in regions with high train density, this initiative aims to optimize transportation efficiency and integration within the network.
The overarching goal of these projects is to advance the modernization of railway infrastructure throughout Lombardy, encompassing initiatives to strengthen vital corridors, expand capacity, and bolster connections to key transportation hubs such as Malpensa Airport. By prioritizing efficiency, safety, and connectivity, these investments are poised to significantly enhance the overall transportation landscape in northern Italy, paving the way for sustained progress and growth in the region.
