Upgrading of National Road SS45 in Val Trebbia – Detailed Design of the Cernusca–Rivergaro Section

IRD Engineering S.r.l., acting as the lead consultant and technical coordinator of the Joint Venture (JV), has been awarded the detailed design phase under an integrated design-build procurement scheme for the upgrading of approximately 11 km of the SS45 “Val di Trebbia” road corridor, between Cernusca (km 110+300) and Rivergaro (km 121+500), in the Province of Piacenza, Emilia-Romagna, Italy.

The SS45 connects Piacenza with Genoa through the Trebbia Valley and provides access to local communities and economic activities along the corridor. The project aims to improve road safety, capacity, resilience and overall transport efficiency along this important connection.

The proposed scheme includes a new road alignment with a Category C2 single-carriageway cross-section, comprising one lane in each direction and an overall road width of 9.50 m. The design is intended to address the limitations of the existing route, reduce travel times, improve traffic flow and enhance safety for road users and local communities.

The main works include six new roundabouts, primary roads and secondary connections to reorganise local access, as well as a three-span viaduct in the Corte Brugnatella area crossing the Trebbia River, with a total length of 180 m. The project also includes retaining structures, drainage and hydraulic works, and environmental and landscape mitigation measures, with particular attention to minimising impacts on the surrounding natural environment and ensuring long-term sustainability.

IRD Engineering’s responsibilities include:

• Coordinating the multidisciplinary design team and integrating the work of the various engineering specialists;
• Developing the detailed design of the main road alignment;
• Designing major structures along the main alignment, including the viaduct and bridge;
• Designing minor structures, including underpasses and retaining walls;
• Preparing the geological and geotechnical investigation report;
• Designing health and safety measures related to the works within IRD Engineering’s scope;
• Coordinating the road, structural, geotechnical, hydraulic and environmental design activities, as well as BIM coordination and utility interference management;
• Managing stakeholder relations and ensuring technical coordination across the JV.

The project will contribute to improving the safety, reliability and efficiency of the SS45 corridor while supporting better connectivity between the Province of Piacenza and the Trebbia Valley.