An agreement for financing Anas's three-year plan to upgrade the Italian road network was signed today between the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Economics and Finance Ministry (MEF) at the Ministry's offices. The agreement was signed by the Director General of the Italian Treasury Vincenzo La Via and EIB Vice-President Dario Scannapieco in the presence of Anas CEO Gianni Armani. The loan amounts to EUR 133 million, the first tranche of total financing of EUR 300 million.
Specifically, investments covering a total of 5 800km will be made on some 170 roads and motorways managed by Anas in all Italian regions. Nearly 40% of the investments will be in southern Italy and the Italian islands. The planned operations concern the upgrading of safety barriers, restructuring of tunnels and construction of noise reduction systems.
These works are also designed to reduce the average rate of accidents on the roads concerned and, because the works will be non-invasive, there will be no negative impact on the environment or landscape.
As regards the financing arrangements, the operation is similar to that of 30 January 2015 between EIB, MEF and FS for works on the rail network, and will enable the Italian Republic to benefit from the favourable lending terms of the EIB. The Treasury will thus make substantial savings in terms of interest payments. Anas will use the funds to implement the investment plan provided for under the project agreement entered into at the same time with the EIB.
Photographer: EIB ©To be defined
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