UPPER project demonstrates innovative school street initiative in Rome

The School Street initiative on Via Monte Ruggero, in Rome's Tufello district, marks the city’s first experiment with tactical urbanism - a method that uses low cost, creative changes to enrich public spaces. 

Despite a rainy launch, the colourful 'flying carpet' artwork by artist Gio Pistone brought cheer to the unveiling. The street, surrounded by schools, sports facilities and cultural venues, was closed to traffic and redesigned with benches, planters and bike racks to prioritise pedestrian safety and accessibility.

The project is part of the UPPER project and received funding from Bloomberg Philanthropies' Asphalt Art Call with a goal to create a compelling graphic artwork on a city street. Led by Rome’s Department of Sustainable Mobility and Transport, the intiative allowed residents to vote for their favourite artwork via an online survey, encouraging a sense of local ownership and community pride. 

With cars removed and pedestrian-friendly features installed, the street now offers a safe, welcoming space for children, families and cultural activities.

This community-focused, low-cost intervention has attracted attention beyond the school community, offering a potential model for future urban improvements. As residents begin to use the area for play, gatherings and social interaction, the project shows how creative, grassroots action can help shape more inclusive, liveable cities.

Author: Carla Giaume

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.