The Talfer and Eisack rivers run through the heart of Bolzano—yet for much of their length, they remain invisible to the city. The Integrated River Space Concept proposes a strategic framework to change this: a long-term vision that transforms 138 hectares of river corridor into a continuous, accessible and climate-resilient urban landscape.

The concept is built on interdisciplinary analysis spanning flood dynamics, river ecology, biodiversity, urban climate and social use—integrating technical expertise with on-site observation and stakeholder dialogue. From this foundation emerges a coordinated spatial strategy that aligns ecological integrity, public life, mobility and hydraulic safety within a single coherent vision.

Core ambitions include restoring ecological continuity, strengthening the rivers' identity within the city, improving microclimate, and enabling safe, inclusive access to water. Concrete measures range from reopening side arms and creating barrier-free access points to establishing biodiversity corridors and transforming underused areas into high-quality public spaces.

Two pilot projects initiate the transition from strategy to reality: the reactivation of a river side arm for direct water contact, and the River Lab—a platform for research, education and civic dialogue.

Structured around communication, participation, planning and pilot action, the concept provides a foundation for phased implementation—linking long-term resilience with interventions that can be tested, adapted and experienced today.

Riverscapes,
Climate Adaption,
Strategic Landscape Planning,
Ecological Corridor,
Green Infrastructures

The role of rivers

Stakeholders

The Bolzano river space, where the Talvera and Isarco meet, is shaped by people, institutions, and nature. Understanding their roles is key to creating a sustainable and inclusive river environment.

STRATEGIC GOALS

1. Experiencing Water

1.1 – Safe water access & new side arms
1.2 – Visual connections with water
1.3 – Birdwatching huts & water observation stations
1.4 – Educational and artistic water platforms

2. GAINING SPACE

2.1 – Expansion of the river space
2.2 – Restoration of damaged riverbanks
2.3 – Spaces for high-quality temporary and permanent uses
2.4 – Strengthening and transforming areas for the river space system

3. OPENING PATHS

3.1 – Recognizable and barrier-free access from neighborhoods
3.2 – Clear path hierarchies
3.3 – Identity-building path design
3.4 – Educational teaching and nature trails

4. STRENGTHENING NATURE

4.1 – Preservation and promotion of near-natural floodplain areas
4.2 – Creation of ecological quiet zones through visitor flow management
4.3 – Coordinated maintenance plans
4.4 – Promoting ecological corridors
4.5 – Protection and promotion of old and habitat tree

5. CONNECTING GREEN

5.1 – Promoting green corridors between river space and city
5.2 – Biodiversity islands
5.3 – Increasing leaf volume
5.4 – Securing cold air channels
5.5 – Continuous riverbank corridor

Plan