On July 26th, Rome’s Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, spoke to journalists about one of the most ambitious projects his administration is undertaking in the run-up to the Jubilee: a new pedestrian zone stretching from St. Peter’s Square to Castel Sant’Angelo. The city is investing nearly USD 80 million to build an underpass to help manage heavy traffic flow between the castle and the basilica.  

The mayor met with Pope Francis at the beginning of the year to present the city’s plans for urban renovations, tourism, spearheading new cultural projects, and solutions to mitigate the heavy traffic. Altogether, almost 90 larger projects are planned, which will cost as much as $2 billion USD. 

Mayor Gualtieri emphasized that all of these plans are “in line with the message of hope, universal brotherhood and trust, which Pope Francis placed at the center of the Jubilee.” 

Rome is expecting at least ten million pilgrims, in addition to the usual stream of seasonal tourists, which is already at an all-time high. Due to the massive influx of travelers, some observers have raised concerns that the Roman infrastructure might collapse.  

 Organizers of the event do not see any reason for such fears. Archbishop Rino Fisichella, who is responsible for organizing the Jubilee for the Vatican, also participated in the city’s press conference. He re-stated his invitation that all people who come to the Eternal City will become “Pilgrims of Hope.”

Only recently, the Archbishop opened an Info Center for pilgrims on the Via Della Conciliazione, the central road leading to St. Peter’s Square. This center will provide information about the Jubilee for individuals and groups as well as assist with the registration process to access the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica. This door is only open in the Jubilee years, and those who pass through it can receive a special plenary indulgence. 

(Edited by Matthew Santucci)