Bologna Mayor Matteo Lepore outlined his upcoming electoral platform and social spending initiatives at the Festa dell’Unità at Park Cevenini in Borgo Panigale, according to local reporting from September 2026. As the incumbent mayor prepares his campaign for the 2027 municipal elections, his proposed strategy centers on a multi-million-euro microcredit fund, targeted grocery vouchers, and expanded educational subsidies designed to support families facing financial strain.
Bologna Ti Sostiene: Social Spending and Urban Mobility
The core of Lepore’s platform features ‘Bologna ti sostiene’, an initiative anchored by a multi-million-euro microcredit fund aimed at households struggling to make ends meet, according to statements at the festival. The program includes targeted grocery store discounts and an allocated one million euros annually to support local students. In transportation, the mayor’s proposals feature a “dimezzamento dell’abbonamento per i parcheggi con le strisce blu” alongside additional price cuts for public transit.
Addressing past transit changes, Lepore defended the controversial decision to raise standard bus ticket prices from 1.50 to 2.30 euros, stating the adjustment successfully achieved its operational goals. He acknowledged that the Città 30 traffic calming initiative—designed to lower speed limits across the city—has successfully saved lives, though he admitted the policy suffered from poor communication and needed clearer explanation to the public.
Stadium Redevelopment and Social Shield Funding
Discussing urban infrastructure, Lepore addressed the future of the Stadio Renato Dall’Arn, calling the project a fascinating venture that requires a definitive decision, according to his public remarks. The administration has met with fan groups to discuss the via Andrea Costa structure, noting potential funding opportunities through European grants. However, the mayor maintained a firm stance against municipal financial contributions toward a new stadium at via Michelino, stating that the primary infrastructure priority for his next mandate remains residential housing.
The funds previously slated for the Dall’Arn stadium renovation will instead be channeled into a social shield fund dedicated to economically vulnerable residents. Additionally, the administration plans to advance the Sfm6 metropolitan railway line to connect the central railway station directly with the Bologna Exhibition Centre (Fiera).
2027 Electoral Strategy and Civic Lists
Looking ahead to the 2027 municipal race, Lepore announced plans to reform his mayoral civic list to incorporate members of civil society and unaffiliated community members who support the center-left coalition. Responding to opposition developments, the mayor dismissed right-wing preparations as disorganized, noting a lack of concrete proposals from competing civic lists associated with figures such as Giovanni Favia, Alberto Zanni, Andrea De Pasquale, and Mauro Felicori.
On national party politics, Lepore downplayed debates surrounding national center-left leadership, arguing that the focus must remain on bold social policies. He specifically referenced Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein, stating that internal critics should voice their opposition directly rather than stalling policy discussions. Regarding immigration enforcement, Lepore stated his support for repatriating individuals without legal residency rights, while criticizing the national government for failing to establish an effective ministerial post dedicated exclusively to immigration management.
Urban Planning, Tramway Expansion, and Security
Lepore highlighted major milestones from his current term, including ongoing tramway construction and the regeneration of abandoned military properties such as the former Perotti and Stamoto barracks. The administration reached an agreement regarding the Passante highway expansion and the San Donnino bridge, with construction planned to extend the tram network to the Pilastro neighborhood by next year.
Urban planning revisions will target areas near the CAAB agricultural center, the Lazzaretto district, and the former Sani site with Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP). Lepore emphasized that the Sani property will undergo structural regeneration rather than high-density residential speculation near the Fiera and Tecnopolo, and will exclude new data centers.
Concluding his remarks, Lepore addressed the impact of online hostility and safety concerns following high-profile digital harassment cases in the city, which led to him receiving police protection. Expressing a desire to perform mayoral duties without a security detail, Lepore urged a broader societal reflection on public discourse, criticizing political opponents for relying on insult rather than policy debate.
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