Located on the outskirts of Sassari, the Rizzeddu-Monserrato neighborhood is divided in two , characterized by critical issues and ongoing improvement projects. Home to approximately 12,000 people, the area reflects a marked disparity: on one side, Monserrato, the wealthier and greener neighborhood; on the other, Rizzeddu, defined as "working-class" and more deprived.
The recently established Neighborhood Committee highlighted a common theme for both parties: concern over growing youth hardship.
"Unfortunately, there are too many young people who have dropped out of school and are living off alcohol and drugs," says President Giovanni Coroforo. This problem affects a minority of the overall population, which is aging: similar to other areas of Sassari, the number of elderly and mature people is growing here too, often without a point of reference for social activities or volunteering.
For three years, Auser has been closed, depriving the elderly and volunteers of a fundamental meeting point, in a neighborhood where poverty is still very present.
The rising average age is forcing municipal administrations to rethink pedestrian traffic: "We need crossings on Via Budapest and other streets," says Armando Canu, who follows this issue for the Committee. "There are too many architectural barriers." The council has announced specific measures to improve this situation, thanks in part to the ongoing dialogue with residents.
Another difference between Rizzeddu and Monserrato concerns the presence of green spaces: Monserrato is characterized by trees and gardens, while Rizzeddu is dominated by asphalt. Therefore, the Committee proposes creating an "agora" in the open space of Via Fondazione Rockefeller, often the site of illegal landfill.
"We'd like to transform it into a garden," explains Canu, envisioning a green oasis behind the school and the church, to contrast the desert-like appearance of the area.
Enrico Pintus, vice president of the Committee, adds: "We're considering a neighborhood garden initiative, between Via Fondazione Rockefeller and Via Washington, and also on Via Parigi. This is an initiative worth managing, also to alleviate social hardship and improve the quality of life."
Finally, Rizzeddu addresses the problem of the municipal housing on Via Rockefeller, the only ones among dozens of Area housing units still in a state of severe disrepair.
"The problem hasn't been solved," Coroforo criticizes, "there are infiltrations everywhere."
The recently approved budget adjustment includes a specific fund for the maintenance of these buildings. However, some of them are still cordoned off, and nearby there are unattractive spaces, often used by teenagers at night.
"The situation is becoming extremely serious," the president concluded, "and is bringing us back to problems we haven't seen for decades."
