by InTrieste
A new maintenance facility planned by Trenitalia in Trieste is moving ahead with firm backing from regional authorities, who describe the €60 million project as a cornerstone for the future of rail travel in northeastern Italy and across nearby borders.
The center, to be built on land owned by Italy’s national rail infrastructure operator, RFI, will service the region’s growing fleet, including 14 new Rock trains — part of 25 new units ordered under a 10-year service agreement between the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region and Trenitalia. The plant will also support trains operating on international and cross-border routes, reinforcing Trieste’s role as a strategic gateway between Italy and Central Europe.
Regional Councillor for Infrastructure and Territory Cristina Amirante told the Regional Council that the project represents “a strategic investment not only for the city, but for the entire regional and transnational rail system,” stressing its expected economic benefits for Trieste and the wider region. The investment, fully financed through regional funds stipulated in the service contract, includes plans for an advanced maintenance hub equipped with an automated train-washing system.
The project remains subject to landscape authorization, with the process scheduled to conclude by January 6, 2026, pending approval from the regional heritage authority.
Still, concerns over the visual impact of the facility — neighboring the historic Porto Vecchio waterfront redevelopment zone — have prompted additional scrutiny. Regional officials met this week with Trieste’s mayor, Roberto Dipiazza, to discuss visual mitigation measures, including landscaping and new tree plantings to shield the structure from view. Trenitalia has been asked to further enhance greenery and evaluate additional architectural finishes to harmonize the facility with the area’s evolving urban landscape.
As Trieste continues to develop its waterfront and strengthen cross-border rail links, the new maintenance hub is positioned to serve as a critical piece of regional transportation infrastructure — balancing modern mobility needs with the city’s historic setting.
