The project involves the phased completion of the Pontremolese line (Parma–La Spezia).
The first phase concerns a two-track expansion between Parma and Vicofertile which, on the outbound section from Parma, follows a new track for the first 5 km or so and runs parallel to the existing line for the remaining 3 km until the entrance to Vicofertile. This project will ensure that the existing line is decommissioned in favour of the new route through the town of Parma, thereby eliminating current conflicts with the town’s road network and with the adjacent neighbourhoods.
The second phase involves:
- the doubling of the track, mainly running parallel to the existing single-track line between Vicofertile and Fornovo di Taro (Osteriazza),
- the upgrading of the Berceto–Pontremoli–Chiesaccia section, involving the construction of an alternative tunnel between Berceto and Pontremoli and a new two-track section between Pontremoli and Chiesaccia.
The Pontremolese project has received partial public funding.
Starting from 12 March 2026, the date of entry into force of Decree-Law no. 32, published in the Official Gazette no. 58 of 11 March 2026, pursuant to Article 5 of the same decree, the Chief Executive Officer of RFI S.p.A. has taken over from the previously appointed Extraordinary Commissioners.
The Extraordinary Commissioner, by Order 3 of 15 June 2026, appointed Rosa Pannetta, Head of RFI S.p.A.'s North-West Area Investments Department.
Advantages
- Increased line capacity
- Greater regularity in rail services
- Reduced journey times
- Improved regional services
- Balancing of the traffic generated by the port of La Spezia
- Improved performance of the line
