Como’s accessibility and development opportunities are restricted by frequent flooding and its surrounding urban morphology. The planned system of weirs was integrated in a completely new design for the waterfront, which implements a new form of mobility to create opportunities for urban redevelopment.
The design gives the waterfront its own identity and restores the connection with the city through an integral approach to sustainable mobility. An extensive pedestrian zone is positioned along the waterside with a permanent promenade situated on the east coast, along with an electric shuttle bus route and bicycle rental facilities. Two car parks are located at the eastern and western end of the bay: one in the water and the other in the former stadium, which also houses tourist services.
A circular motif unites pedestrians and vehicles in one integrated zone that prioritises pedestrian traffic. On Piazza Cavour, the inner rings in the pavement extend westwards towards the park and into circular green islands and seating objects. Towards the historic city centre, the circular pattern gradually dissolves into the granite paving.
On the west side, the park is designed to inform visitors about sustainable energy, and continues into the inner city. The new pavement is mostly composed of existing bricks and stone from nearby quarries. LEDs are used for the lighting system. Equipped with solar panels, the roofs of the waterfront pavilions act as rainwater collectors for the toilets.