Pista ciclabile sul cavalcavia della Ghisolfa: scatta la fase 2 dei lavori, nuove modifiche alla viabilitàClosure of the Martesana Cycle Path: Cyclists Redirected to the State Road
As of August 31, 2026, the most frequented cycle path in Lombardy, the Naviglio Martesana, has been closed for a stretch of one and a half kilometers. The closure, spanning from Gorgonzola to Bellinzago Lombardo, is scheduled to last until March 1, 2027. (comune.gorgonzola.mi.it)
Reason for Closure
The closure is necessitated by the reconstruction of the crossing over the Trobbia stream beneath the canal. This intervention aims to prevent debris accumulation and ensure proper water flow. However, the ordinance issued by the Est Ticino Villoresi Consortium on July 22, 2026, does not specify alternative routes for cyclists during this period. (comune.gorgonzola.mi.it)
Impact on Cyclists
The Martesana cycle path is not merely a recreational route; it is a vital 36-kilometer corridor connecting Milan to Trezzo sull’Adda. It serves daily commuters, families on weekends, and a growing number of Italian and international cycle tourists traversing the Navigli area. Interrupting this path for six months without a clear plan is akin to shutting down a railway line without providing substitute bus services. (bikeitalia.it)
Alternative Routes and Concerns
With the closure, the only alternative for cyclists traveling from Gorgonzola to Bellinzago is the former State Road 11 Padana Superiore. This road features two lanes, heavy traffic, and no protected spaces for cyclists. Navigating this road, especially during peak hours, poses significant safety risks. Additionally, during the initial days of the closure, no workers were observed on-site, raising concerns about the efficiency and urgency of the ongoing works. (bikeitalia.it)
Municipal Response and Recommendations
Gorgonzola is among the municipalities certified by FIAB for its commitment to sustainable mobility. However, the response to the closure has been inadequate, with the municipality stating that the matter “is not our responsibility.” This response is insufficient, as the safety of residents and commuters is a political responsibility, even when the infrastructure belongs to a consortium. (bikeitalia.it)
The Pedala Martesana association has been advocating for weeks, urging municipalities to establish safe alternative routes and reminding that this stretch is “the only truly safe road in Martesana.” (bikeitalia.it)
Proposed Solutions
To mitigate the impact of the closure, the following measures are recommended:
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Temporary Detour: Clear signage should be installed to guide cyclists along a temporary detour, utilizing the unused strip of land adjacent to the closed path. This solution is cost-effective and can be implemented swiftly.
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Safety Measures on State Road 11: During the construction period, the relevant authorities should consider reducing the speed limit to 30 km/h, installing clear signage indicating the recommended cycle route, and providing physical separation where possible to enhance cyclist safety.
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Mandatory Detour Plans: It should be mandatory for every ordinance that closes a cycling route to include a detailed detour plan, similar to the requirements for motorized traffic.
Six months of barriers without alternatives send a clear message to those who choose cycling for commuting: “figure it out.” This is the worst message a region recognized for its cycling infrastructure can convey. (bikeitalia.it)
Note: The reader who provided this information preferred to remain anonymous.
For more information, you can refer to the official announcements from the municipalities of Gorgonzola and Bellinzago Lombardo:
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Gorgonzola: (comune.gorgonzola.mi.it)
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Bellinzago Lombardo: (comune.bellinzagolombardo.mi.it)
Additionally, the Pedala Martesana association’s appeal can be found here: (primalamartesana.it)