by Nina Vaclavikova
Interview: Trieste councilor for public works, Elisa Lodi
A preschool complex in Trieste has reopened following extensive seismic improvements and fire-prevention upgrades, city officials announced this week.
The facilities, which include the “La Barchetta” and “Lo Scoiattolo” nurseries at Via Manzoni 10 and the “La Scuola del Sole” preschool at Via Manzoni 14, underwent a €1.7 million renovation aimed at strengthening the buildings against earthquakes and bringing them into compliance with fire-safety regulations.
The upgrades were presented during a press conference at the site by Elisa Lodi, Trieste’s councillor for real estate policies and sport, together with Giulio Bernetti, director of the city’s Department of Territory, Environment, Public Works and Heritage. They were joined by members of the public works technical team, pedagogical coordinator Cosulelo Louvrier, and school staff.
The project, based on plans prepared by a consortium of local engineering and architecture firms, focused on structural reinforcements and safety systems across the two connected buildings. The first houses the “La Barchetta” and “Lo Scoiattolo” nurseries, while the second contains the “La Scuola del Sole” preschool.
Construction work officially began after the project’s approval in November 2022, with the budget for building costs set at just under €1.3 million, including safety charges.
“This reopening marks an important step for families and educators in Trieste,” Ms. Lodi said, noting the collaboration between the public works department and the city’s education sector. The preschool resumed operations earlier this year, and the nurseries have now followed suit after the final completion of renovations.
City officials emphasized that the investment reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that educational facilities meet modern safety standards while providing an improved environment for young children.
