Tirano Variant Road Opens, easing traffic in Valtellina

The Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport announced the opening of the new Tirano Variant on the SS 38 “dello Stelvio”. The 6.6‑km bypass, costing €254.4 million, includes a natural tunnel, an artificial tunnel, two Adda viaducts, four roundabouts, and several underpasses. It is intended to divert heavy traffic from the historic centre of Tirano, reducing congestion, travel times, emissions and improving safety for residents, commuters and tourists.

The inauguration was attended by Vice‑Premier and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini, who called the project “an operation awaited for 40 years”, as well as senior officials from ANAS, the regional government and local authorities. A ministry statement described the day as “a historic day for Tirano and for the whole Valtellina”. The work is part of a broader push to upgrade transport infrastructure ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The new route links Villa di Tirano with the Campone roundabout, passing through Bianzone and Tirano, and is expected to cut travel times by up to half an hour while lowering pollution levels in the valley.