Bacoli – The new Baia railway station, on the Cumana line, opens its doors to the public, becoming a bridge between past and future. Inaugurated in the presence of the President of the Campania Region, Vincenzo De Luca, the Mayor of Bacoli, Josi della Ragione, and local authorities, the facility represents a unique example of integrating public transportation and archaeological enhancement.
A twenty-year construction site
The project has had a difficult journey. Work, begun in 2005 and stalled since 2012 due to administrative disputes, resumed in February 2023 thanks to the intervention of EAV, the regional public transport company. The total investment amounts to €37 million for a surface area of approximately 3 square meters.
As EAV President Umberto De Gregorio recalled, the reopening of the construction site was possible after the disputes between the Campania Regional Government Commissioner and the concessionaire were resolved.
A living museum on the tracks
The station is not just a railway hub, but an immersive cultural experience. Every architectural element interacts with the surrounding landscape: materials, textures, colors, and references to ancient structures accompany travelers on a journey through Baia's history.
The real gem is the artistic installation that recounts the places, events, and characters linked to the archaeological area.
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The next interventions
The station's opening marks only the first chapter of a larger project. A second phase of work, costing €14 million, is already planned. It includes the construction of an underpass directly connecting the station to the Baia seafront and a connection to the old stop. Construction is scheduled for completion in 2027.
Bradyseism puts the line at risk
The inauguration, however, comes at a critical time for Cumana. The phenomenon of bradyseism and frequent seismic swarms affecting the Phlegraean Fields are causing serious disruption to rail traffic. The magnitude 4 earthquake recorded at the end of July caused significant damage to the Monte Olibano tunnel and the old Pozzuoli station.
The line is currently closed between Arco Felice and Gerolomini, with a bus shuttle providing the connection. The tunnel safety work is expected to be completed within three months, while the new Pozzuoli station will be operational by July 2026. Meanwhile, the doubling of the tracks has been completed.
Towards the relaunch of the Circumflegrea
Work is also underway to restore service on the Circumflegrea line between Licola and Torregaveta, which has been interrupted for over 15 years. This represents a sign of revitalization for the entire Phlegraean Fields railway network, despite the challenges posed by the region's geological instability.
Comments (1)
The opening of the new station in Baia is a very promising development. However, there are problems with bradyseism that could cause disruption. I hope the safety work is completed soon to prevent further damage.