Comparative analysis of costs and savings of two alternative routes
As part of the feasibility study for the structural and functional upgrade of the A25 motorway, with particular attention to the section known as the “Cerchio-Popoli Variant,” TRT was tasked with preparing a comparative analysis of the costs and savings between two possible route alternatives.
The currently operational highway section between Cerchio and Popoli presents significant infrastructure challenges related to both the age of the structures and the morphological conditions of the terrain it crosses. In this context, Strada dei Parchi S.p.A. and Italferr have submitted design modification proposals aimed at improving the safety, functionality, and sustainability of the infrastructure.
Alternative 1 envisions the construction of three new tunnels, two viaducts, and new junctions, along with the demolition of the existing section between Cucullo, Pratola Peligna, and Sulmona. The new route would extend from the municipality of Cerchio to Popoli and would save approximately 17 km compared to the current situation.
Alternative 2 envisions the construction of a new tunnel and the simultaneous demolition of the same existing section between Cucullo, Pratola Peligna, and Sulmona. This solution would save approximately 7.5 km compared to the current situation.
For Alternatives 1 and 2, costs and savings were estimated over a 34-year timeframe, including the four years of construction of Alternative 1 (the first to enter into operation) and the 30 years of operation from its opening date.
Based on the demand data provided by the traffic study (carried out by Plinomia Srl, and including accidents’ costs estimation as well), three growth scenarios were defined: Precautionary, Optimistic, and Pessimistic. For each scenario, the construction and maintenance costs of the works, the residual value taking into account the useful life of the various components, the time savings, the environmental benefits, and the accident costs of the two alternatives were compared.