Arena Priel: a new meeting place for Brixen
The town of Brixen has taken an important step towards the future: the technical and economic feasibility project for the Arena Priel has been approved by the municipal administration. The project, drawn up by architect Martin Mutschlechner and the practice hbpm Ingegneri Srl, envisages total costs of €1,169,480.86. Of this, €667,569.66 is allocated to construction works and €501,911.20 to available funds. The project is part of a comprehensive flood protection programme in Brixen.
A vision taking shape since 2010
The idea of the Arena Priel is not new: as early as 2010, a concept for developing this structure was proposed as part of the masterplan’s “White Paper”. In 2016, the first construction phase of the project “Flood protection for Brixen” was implemented, including the new flood protection structures “Tiniga” and “Priel”. One central element is still missing, however: access to the Eisack river in the Priel area. This access is to be planned in conjunction with other projects such as the construction of an underground car park and the extension of the Acquarena swimming facility.
A place to meet
The Arena Priel is intended to be more than just a flood protection project. The vision is to create a meeting place for citizens that brings the Eisack more strongly into everyday life and leisure. The planned amphitheatre will serve as a central place for recreation, encounters and cultural events.
“The CittàPaeseFiume project pursues two main goals: flood protection and the ecological enhancement of the Eisack,” explained Mayor Peter Brunner. In addition to flood protection, measures are to be taken to enhance the river as a natural habitat and a place of leisure.
Integration into the urban landscape
Access to the Eisack is to be created by a stepped structure in the area of today’s Priel car park. Particular emphasis is placed on integrating the project into the existing and future urban infrastructure. A public park above the planned underground car park and the extension of the Acquarena are also part of the overall concept.
The town of Brixen sees the Arena Priel as a milestone in its urban development. “With the Arena Priel we want to strengthen the connection between the town and the river,” says Mayor Brunner. “It is about creating a place that makes the Eisack accessible to everyone while at the same time adding value for the town.”
A far-sighted project
The Arena Priel shows how Brixen combines tradition and innovation. It will not only be an important contribution to flood protection, but also a lively meeting place that lastingly improves the quality of life in the town.
The approval of the feasibility project is a major step towards implementation – a project that will strengthen not only the safety but also the identity of Brixen.