InfraUrbanism: Designing a Resiliency Framework for Pellestrina Island

InfraUrbanism

Envisioning New Alternatives for Old Infrastructure in Venice, Italy

InfraUrbanism

Envisioning New Alternatives for Old Infrastructure in Venice, Italy

Massachusetts Institute of Technology Department of Urban Studies and Planning School of Architecture and Planning

Copyright © 2019 Massachusetts Institute of Technology Department of Urban Studies and Planning School of Architecture and Planning All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, unless specifically permitted in the text or by written permission of the authors.

Elizabeth Haney

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION

32

ANALYSIS + CONTEXT

70

2.1 Geographical Context 2.2 Acqua Alta 2.3 Sea Level Rise & Climate Projections 2.4 People 2.5 Environmental Systems 2.6 Mobility 2.7 Economy 2.8 Urban Form

74 80 88 100 106 112 122 240

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

162

3.1 Future of Fishing 3.2 Resilience in Reuse 3.3 Murazzi 2.0

164 212 284

CONCLUSION + PATH FORWARD

334

REFERENCES

340

APPENDIX: SUMMER WORKSHOP

346

Collyn Chan

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS InfraUrbanism was a semester-long site planning practicum led by Mary Anne Ocampo, lecturer at the Department of Urban Studies and Planning at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

This inception of the class was only made possible by building on previous work and relationships between MIT and institutions in Venice, especially the work done by Andrew Whittle and Paola Malanotte-Rizzoli, among others.

Guest lectures in Venice included: 1. Pierpaolo Compostrini, Director, Consortium for Managing Research Activities in the Venice Lagoon “Intro to Venice: history, economy, society and perspectives”

The Consorzio Venezia Nuova (CVN) introduced the site as a locus for exploration for the MIT Site and Environmental Planning course. CVN hosted the students in Venice, shared background data, studies, and arranged for workshops, presentations, and field study opportunities. MIT students worked closely with Elena Zambardi, the Communication and External Relations Department Manager at CVN.

3. Stefania Tonin, Associate Professor, IUAV “Environmental Remediation at Port Marghera: The State of the Art”

Travel was made possible by generous funding from the MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI) Italy Program, directed by Serenella Sferza.

Università Iuav di Venezia (IUAV) professor Laura Fregolent and Ph.D. candidates Matteo Basso and Francesco Sbetti provided support and guidance throughout the project.

2. Francesco Sbetti “The System of Urban Planning in Italy and Venetian Territories”

4. Mateo Basso, Ph.D. candidate, IUAV “The Venice Region and the Islands” Guest lectures at MIT included: 1. Andrew Whittle, Edmund K. Turner Professor in Civil Engineering, MIT “Flood Protection” and “Beneath Venice: Subsidence and Restoration from the Bottom Up” 2. Jill Allen Dixon, Associate Principal, Sasaki “Coastal Resilience Case Studies” 3. Paola Malanotte-Rizzoli, Professor of Physical Oceanography, MIT “History of the Lagoon: From a Sedimentation to an Erosion State”, “The Recurrent Floods of Venice: Geological and Oceanographic Reasons”, “Climate Change Globally” and “Climate Change along the Mediterranean Sea”

THE TEAM Massachusetts Institute of Technology Department of Urban Studies and Planning This report was developed by 9 Master in City Planning students and one faculty member at MIT's Department of Urban Studies and Planning in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, over the course of the Spring 2019 semester.

MIT DUSP video of practicum field work in Venice: https://vimeo.com/336253924 Mary Anne Ocampo Lecturer at MIT DUSP and Principal Urban Designer at Sasaki

Vanessa Toro Barragán MCP '20

Braxton Bridges MCP '20

Collyn Chan MCP '19

Elizabeth Haney MCP '19

Azka Mohyuddin MCP '19

Ari Ofsevit MCP '19

Bella Purdy, Teaching Assistant MCP '19

Mary Hannah Smith MCP '20

Angela Wong MCP '19

Azka Moyhuddin

Collyn Chan

Vanessa Toro Barragán

Elizabeth Haney

Elizabeth Haney

Elizabeth Haney

Elizabeth Haney

Collyn Chan

Azka Mohyuddin

Elizabeth Haney

Introduction

Elizabeth Haney

34

Introduction

01 INTRODUCTION

How can site planning techniques inform a design strategy for a large construction staging area in a sensitive environment while responding to the risks of climate change?

On the night of February 2, 2019, a group of MIT students’ feet grew wet as they trudged through the streets of Venice and a wrong turn brought them to a passageway completely inundated by “acqua alta.” As their shoes slowly filled with water, they turned back and eventually found their way to Piazza San Marco. In the piazza, they saw the basilica shimmering in the reflection of a tide that reached 113cm. This tide was high enough that it should have triggered the operation of the MOSE, Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico, floodgates if they were in operation, but the last floodgate was only installed three days prior. The floodgates, first conceived of in the late 1980s, have been under construction since 2003. The staging platform for the massive MOSE infrastructure became the site of exploration for site planning practicum from the MIT's Department of Urban Studies and Planning (DUSP). As the construction of the MOSE floodgates nears an end, Venice faces new threats that have grown since the project began: depopulation in the

historic city and the islands of the lagoon, and an increasing threat from climate change. Hosted by CVN, the team of MIT students has spent the last five months exploring the following questions: How might site and environmental planning help create a design framework to protect communities from climate change and sea level rise? How could reclaiming reclaimed land revitalize Pellestrina Island?

The site for the study is a large human-made peninsula that juts out from the northern tip of Pellestrina Island. Made mostly from dredged fill and reinforced concrete, at its widest point the platform is nearly 325 by 450 meters, on an island that is often only 200 meters wide.

Introduction

35

Pellestrina is a fishing and agricultural island with four villages and a decreasing population of 4,000 residents. The population of Pellestrina has been declining due to the lack of affordable housing and employment opportunities on the island. With rising environmental hazards, the closing of a major shipyard, and new fishing regulations, the island has been suffering economically and environmentally for the last decade. The Malamocco site is located at the northern tip of the island and is an arrival point via public transportation from Venice and Lido. The island is removed from the tourism of Venice because of its distance from the city, which is publicly accessible via water taxi and bus/ferry with a typical travel time of one hour. The Malamocco site presents an opportunity for Pellestrina residents, the Venice Water Authority (VWA), and CVN to work together to create a vision that re-imagines how the reclaimed land left behind after MOSE might contribute to the revitalization of the island.

Azka Mohyuddin

36

Introduction

1

MOSE & MIT RESEARCHERS

2

SUMMER SCHOOL

3

SITE PLANNING PRACTICUM

MIT has a long relationship with the MOSE project with faculty serving as consulting experts on the project since 1995. Professors from multiple disciplines have advised CVN, including Paola Malanotte-Rizzoli, a physical oceanographer, and Andrew Whittle, a civil engineer.

Since the summer of 2017, CVN, MIT, and IUAV have collaborated to bring Italian and American undergraduate and graduate students together during summer workshops. These “summer schools” have been held at the camp adjacent to the Malamocco work site to research the MOSE system, climate change, and urban planning.

For the Spring 2019 site planning practicum, DUSP used site planning techniques to explore hypothetical design strategies for the development or demolition of the MOSE construction platform.

Introduction

37

38

Introduction

1.1 THE COURSE The Site Planning class is the oldest continuously taught course in the School of Architecture and Planning at MIT. Since it was first offered in 1935, this site planning course has been taught by only a handful of instructors including Kevin Lynch, Donald Appleyard, Tunney Lee, and Gary Hack. In 1956 Kevin Lynch took what was seen as a mainstream course in site engineering and turned it into a whole–system approach to planning the built and natural environments.

Under the direction of Eran Ben-Joseph, the class began incorporating hands-on, client-based projects dealing with a variety of sites: hurricane devastated areas in Biloxi, Mississippi, retrofitted housing developments in Tama, Japan and contaminated waterfront areas in the Bronx, New York. Today, Mary Anne Ocampo brings her experience as an urban designer to continue the whole-system approach pioneered by Lynch and in this course was able to build upon longstanding relations between MIT, CVN, and IUAV.

Introduction

39

COURSE SCHEDULE SPRING 2019 JANUARY

I. RESEARCH & ANALYSIS

MARCH

II. CREATION OF FRAMEWORK & STRATEGY

MAY

III. SYNTHESIS OF FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS

JUNE

IV. FINAL REPORT

Elizabeth Haney

FIELDWORK In January 2019, a group of nine MIT graduate planning students and lecturer Mary Anne Ocampo traveled to Venice for a week-long site visit that included extensive fieldwork and lectures from Venetian scholars and practitioners.

In Venice, both IUAV and CVN coordinated relevant lectures, bringing in leading scholars and scientists to speak about the MOSE system, planning and environmental remediation in the Venetian Lagoon.

CVN hosted a visit to the restricted area of the site, where students were able to observe and document the platform and descend beneath the Malamocco floodgates, 20 meters below the surface of the Malamocco inlet. Afterward, the class explored the length of Pellestrina island, and then visited multiple other areas of the lagoon over their weeklong visit, including: Torcello, Burano, Murano, St. Erasmo and the fishing city of Chioggia.

COURSEWORK At MIT, the students applied the lessons of site planning to the Malamocco site, including analysis of demographics, topography, soil conditions, hydrology, open space, mobility systems, land use, sea level projections, and patterns of use for the site, Pellestrina island, and the lagoon.

In addition, the class had the fortunate opportunity to share interdisciplinary expertise between DUSP and other departments at MIT, including guest lectures from: Andrew Whittle, a professor in civil engineering from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Paola MalanotteRizzoli, a professor in oceanography from the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Studies.

Students also learned about coastal resiliency strategies from Sasaki Urban Planner Jill Allen Dixon’s experience working on the Mississippi Delta and resiliency plans for Boston. Throughout the course, Mary Anne Ocampo shared lessons around urban design through case studies such as the Chicago Riverwalk where urban design allowed for a joyous, ecologically informed and more resilient public space along the Chicago River.

With each of these elements together, students developed urban design principles and potential design concepts for the site.

Along with Lido, Pellestrina is one of two barrier islands that have protected the rest of the lagoon from the forces of the open ocean as well as military invaders.

42

Introduction

1.2 THE SITE HISTORY OF PROTECTION: FROM INVASION AND THE SEA The site and the island of Pellestrina have served as a vital barrier between the historic city of Venice and the Adriatic Sea for over one thousand years.

Since its first description in the historical record, Pellestrina has been a place formed by the struggle between the destructive forces of the ocean and human resistance, where storm surge has ripped away earthen dikes, beaches and landfill and the people of the Venetian lagoon have rebuilt even stronger defenses.

Pellestrina’s economy has evolved from salt production to vineyard and market farming, and by the late 1800s to fishing. Parts of the island, including the land at the site, as well as at Porto Secco and Ca’ Roman was reserved for military fortification since the late 1300s. With much of the island’s land reserved for military and institutional uses, property division and constant flooding from the sea drove Pellestrina residents to turn to fishing.

Ongoing flooding spurred the Magistrato Alle Acque to look for a new solution to protect the littoral islands and the lagoon. In 1741, Venetian officials began a 40-year project to fortify the coastline with the Murazzi a 5m tall and 12m wide seawall along 20 kilometers of the ocean facing side of Pellestrina, along with Lido and the mainland.

The remnants of Batteria San Pietro sit on the western edge of the site. Source: Pellestrina Turismo.

A historic map of the Venetian Lagoon Source: Inside Venice

Introduction

43

THE FLOOD OF 1966 A combination of sirocco winds, swollen rivers, and a low-pressure storm brought a devastating high tide, acqua alta, to Venice on November 4, 1966. The storm ripped away the boulders of the Murazzi and water levels in the lagoon reached record heights, with a peak at 194cm above the tidal gauge at Punta de Salute.

The tides would stay at over 100cm for nearly 24 hours, inundating homes, churches, and storefronts. On Pellestrina approximately 4,000 residents evacuated, as the storm flooded homes, salinated the soil and caused an estimated 40 billion lira in damage across the lagoon.

1966 Flooding in Piazza San Marco

Murazzi damage in Pellestrina after the Flood of 1966

Sources: “4 NOVEMBRE 1966 LA GRANDE PAURA.”; Plant, Venice.; Gugliuzzo, “The ‘Serenissima’ at Hazard.”

Memorial to flood victims on Pelllestrina Island

44

Introduction

“The terror begins. The phone does not stop ringing.

They are distress calls, information calls. The sea has increased the level. The lagoon in turn has already covered the coast of the whole island with water. Councilor Campolonghi informs me that in Portosecco the dam has given way and that in San Pietro it is giving way. In Brasiola, the dam broke for a front of 200 meters; in all these leaks the sea enters by force forming true channels of murky water, while the waves, high on the twenty meters, even where the dam holds, pass beyond the barriers with their water flows. The lagoon has risen, while the wind has strengthened, the rain his fall continues. At noon no one eats: We hear the engines of fishing boats on the shore remained buzzing, ready for departure.

Many families have already started on the boats to the land. The sea is scary. Its waves, of turbid color, are powerful, they overcome the dam, they uproot the boulders. Even the Ca ‘Roman dam gives way, its boulders are carried on the lagoon by fury of the waves. At Brasiola, Portosecco and San Pietro, the leaks are greater, without saying those of Santa Maria del Mare, where the dam of the port is broken in two and the sea waters have completely covered it and, behind the barracks of the carabinieri, where the sea is making its own ruin of the Murazzi. I phone the authorities of Venice: I ask, scream, I implore only “ships, ships, ships”. Pellestrina must evacuate, the danger is to sink everyone. The sea is uncontrollable, strength and human will is like a straw against a giant.

To evacuate, save oneself, is human.” - a Pellestrina resident’s description of the flood

Mary Hannah Smith

Introduction

45

SITE LOCATION AND SCALE

Piazza San Marco

300 meters

Malamocco Site

450 meters

46

Introduction

Porto Marghera

Venice

Lido Inlet

Lido

ADRIATIC SEA

Malamocco Inlet

Site

VENETIAN LAGOON

Pellestrina

N 0

Chioggia Inlet

2.5

Introduction

5km

47

VENETIAN LAGOON MOSE Floodgates

Ferry Landing

Nav

igat

Camp 2

Camp 1

48

Introduction

ion

Loc k

MALAMOCCO INLET

ADRIATIC SEA

k

Syncrolyft

0

25

N

50m

Introduction

49

SITE PHOTOS

50

Introduction

Introduction

51

Angela Wong

52

Introduction

1.3 THE MOSE PROJECT SAFEGUARDING THE LAGOON

1966

Storm surge driven flood of 1966

1973

Venice designated a “Priority National Interest"

1981

Experts convened to determine solution

1984

Comitatone & CVN created under Special Law

1994

Mobile barrier design approved

1998

Project Environmental Impact Statement Approved

2003

Construction Begins

2022

Anticipated Completion Date

Introduction

53

Source: Scotti, “PROGETTAZIONE DELLE OPERE DI DIFESA DALLE ACQUE ALTE - II.”

54

Introduction

MOSE mobile barrier drawing illustrates how the gate pivots from the sea floor to protect the lagoon. Source: https://www.mosevenezia.eu/?lang=en

In response to the flood of 1966, the Italian government established special legislation to safeguard the city of Venice and the Venetian Lagoon in 1973, which recognized the idea of mobile barriers. A second law in 1984 created a national committee, the Comitatone, and entrusted the design and implementation of the floodgates to CVN, a concession of the national Ministry of Infrastructure. Multiple proposals for the MOSE were considered, but a system of mobile gates was finally selected because their buoyancy enabled them to meet the requirement that the barriers be invisible when not in use.

A test of the MOSE at San Nicolo. Source: mosevenezia.eu

Introduction

55

A diagram of the system of interventions that are part of the plan for the lagoon. Source: mosevenezia.eu

The MOSE floodgates are part of a more extensive system of interventions that CVN has undertaken as a coordinated plan for the lagoon. These interventions range from strengthening the historic Murazzi wall with jet grouting to reinforcing breakwaters with new interlocking manufactured

56

Introduction

stones called tetrapods. They also repaired and created new local defenses, like the rebuilding and raising of lagoon quaysides as well as the construction of the "Baby MOSE" flood protection infrastructure at Chioggia.

upgraded

existing Upgrading of the quaysides

Dune reconstruction

Beyond hard infrastructure, the interventions also include protecting and reconstructing the environment of the lagoon — replanting sea grass, rebuilding the partially submerged islands (called barene) and restoring Adriatic dune structures.

Sources: Standish, “2 Barriers to Barriers: Why Environmental Precaution Has Delayed Mobile floodgates to Protect Venice.”; Munaretto, Vellinga, and Tobi, “Flood Protection in Venice under Conditions of Sea-Level Rise.”; Gugliuzzo, “The ‘Serenissima’ at Hazard.”

Introduction

57

PLATFORM CONSTRUCTION A project as big as the MOSE system required a large construction site for building and assembling the different parts of the gates. For this purpose, CVN leased land from a religious order, which runs a nearby nursing home, and started construction on the part of the island that had previously been a semi-public beach and woodland area that some locals partially used as a dumping ground. In 2004, CVN began preparing the site, which eventually became the platform site as it is today, to handle MOSE construction. First, they constructed new breakwaters and used sheet pile to form the outline of the platform, then added dredged material and

covered it with cement and reinforced it by jet grouting to stabilize the soil 20 meters below sea level. This stability allowed the platform to become a busy work-site that could support the construction of four-story-high caissons and massive flood gates before they were installed under water. Eventually, a “syncrolyft” was constructed on the end of the platform, where the 4,200-ton caissons were rolled on railroad tracks to be lowered into the ocean and floated for final installation. A workers' camp was also built adjacent to the site to house a large number of employees needed for the project.

2003 3

100,000+ m of fill 3 120,000 m of concrete

2006

2004 2,400 meters of sheet pile 20m deep jet grouting*

2009 Source: mosevenezia.eu *Estimates from construction drawings

58

Introduction

SOUTH

3

2.7

2.5

2.6 218

3

NORTH

SECTION A

106

SECTION B EAST

WEST

2.7

2.5

-9

-9

SOUTH

2.5

SECTION D NORTH

SOUTH

SECTION C

2.5

-14

-14 95

88

SECTION E

2.6

2.7

2.5 EAST

WEST

3

2.5

NORTH

435

435

E B

C

163

D

Since the completion of the construction of the caissons, the MOSE platform has been used as a storage and staging area for the MOSE floodgates.

With the final floodgate installed, this massive piece of infrastructure holds remnants of all of the phases of construction that happened there — anchors, heavy equipment, shade tents and hundreds of concrete piles.

Introduction

59

60

Introduction

Introduction

61

62

Introduction

Introduction

63

7.1d Litorale di Lido - Alberoni, 1

5.2.1a Riqualificazione aree di cantiere: teleguidata Alberoni, 1 ULTIMATO

3b Trapianto Fanerogame Bocca Malamocco, 1

5.2.2 Riqualificazione aree di cantiere: Spalla Nord Alberoni, 1

5.2.1b Riqualificazione aree di cantiere: teleguidata S. Maria del Mare, 1 ULTIMATO

5.2.3 Riqualificazione aree di cantiere: Spalla Sud S. Maria del Mare, 1 9.8 Forte S. Pietro - Realizzazione del parco con vivificazione idrodinamica delle aree umide presenti, 2

4.2 Area B - S. Maria del Mare, 1

6.1 Ampliamento e designazione dei SIC-ZPS - S.Maria del Mare, 1 ULTIMATO

64

Introduction

1.4 THE EUROPE PLAN A PLAN FOR RESTORING THE SITE TO A BEACH

1994 MOSE Design Approved

2000 Natura 2000 Site Designation

2003

2007

2012

Final EIS Approved

2007 Plan

2012 Update

As the MOSE floodgate installation is completed, no further tasks are planned for the MOSE platform.

The current post-construction plan for the site — referred to informally as the “Europe Plan”, calls for the deconstruction of the platform to restore and reconstitute protected habitats affected by the construction. The plan requires that “For each of the community habitats and species affected by construction activities, one or more compensatory measures have been developed, with a precautionary approach, aimed at the reconstitution or redevelopment of areas that are increasingly larger than those temporarily and permanently occupied by the work.”

2019 A question for this class

at an estimated cost of €3,520,000. The worker camp and adjacent area are to be reforested, and historic structures renovated as part of a nature park, at an estimated cost of €4,000,000.

Noting these plans were first outlined in 2007, MIT’s site planning practicum used this moment of transition to explore different hypothetical design options informed by changes in climate change research and the economy of the Venetian lagoon.

Using site planning techniques, students created informed exploratory design proposals for the deconstruction or enhancement of the platform.

This plan includes several measures for environmental restoration, including sea grass transplantation, rebuilding the barene and reconstructing dunes. At the MOSE site itself, the platform is to be removed and replaced with a beach Source: “Piano Delle Misure Di Compensazione, Conservazione e Riqualificazione Ambientale Dei SIC IT3250003, IT3250023, IT3250030 e IT3250031 e Della ZPS IT3250046 BOCCA DI MALAMOCCO.”

Introduction

65

1 THE FUTURE OF FISHING 2

RESILIENCE IN REUSE

3 MURAZZI 2.0 66

Introduction

1.5 THE THREE DESIGN PROPOSALS

1

THE FUTURE OF FISHING Angela Wong | Ari Ofsevit | Vanessa Toro Barragán Project Goal: Restore to nature while celebrating the economic history of Pellestrina and reinventing the future of fishing.

Introduction

67

2

RESILIENCE IN REUSE Mary Hannah Smith | Elizabeth Haney Project Goal: A new form of coastal defense that builds on the site’s historic assets, bringing life to the MOSE platform and preparing Pellestrina for a new era.

H

68

Introduction

3

MURAZZI 2.0 Collyn Chan | Azka Mohyuddin | in collaboration with Braxton Bridges Project Goal: Transforming divisive infrastructure into a connection. This project proposes design elements that connect the villages of Pellestrina to their history, to the Adriatic and a site of new opportunity.

Introduction

69

Analysis and Context

Azka Mohyuddin

72

Analysis and Context

02 ANALYSIS AND CONTEXT

Site and environmental planning is grounded in an understanding and analysis of the contextual factors.

This section on analysis and context of Venice is organized by eight themes: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Geographical Context Acqua Alta Sea Level Rise & Climate Projections People Environmental Systems Mobility Economy Urban Form

In order to plan and design for the site as part of a broader system, the themes are analyzed across geographic scales: the Veneto region, the lagoon, the island of Pellestrina, and the site.

Analysis and Context

73

74

Analysis and Context

REGIONAL

LAGOON

PELLESTRINA

SITE

2.1 GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT

The MOSE site is situated in a unique position, where both historical military and hydrological defenses sit side by side. These protective structures are located at the entrances to the Venetian lagoon and have acted as the first line of defense against human-made and natural threats.

Structures throughout the lagoon, including the Murazzi seawall, have been developed as a response to storm surge, frequent flood events, and sea level rise. The MOSE flood barriers have become a critical component of efforts to protect the lagoon from projected long-term climate impacts.

Throughout the history of the lagoon, the city of Venice has played an important role in military conflicts, both within Italy and abroad. Thus, Venetian authorities sought to enhance the defense capabilities of the territory through the construction of forts. Complete with weapons, such as cannons, these defensive structures protected communities of the lagoon from invading forces (fortificazioni, 2012).

Historical Military Defenses

Flood Defenses

Analysis and Context

75

SITE

MILITARISTIC REMNANTS OF THE PAST

PELLESTRINA

Anthropological forces have shaped the lagoon over the past millennium for military defense purposes. As a significant force in many conflicts throughout Italian history, such as The War of The League of Cambria and Napoleon’s campaign through Italy, Venetian authorities sought to buttress the security of the region. In particular, the practicum site houses the “Batteria San Pietro”, a fort equipped with multiple large cannons meant to defend the Malamocco inlet against invading forces (fortificazioni, 2012). Additionally, directly adjacent to the site are four defense structures that further illustrate the lagoon’s historical military prowess: the Forte San Pietro in Volta, the Ottagano San Pietro, and the Batteria Rochetta.

4

1

REGIONAL

LAGOON

3

0

76

200

400m

Analysis and Context

2

1

Batteria San Pietro

2

Forte San Pietro in Volta

3

Ottagano San Pietro

4

Batteria Rochetta

http://www.fortificazioni.net/batterie/SanPietro.htm

http://www.fortificazioni.net/Ottagoni/SanPietro.htm

http://www.fortificazioni.net/forti/SAN_PIETRO_IN_VOLTA.htm

http://www.fortificazioni.net/batterie/Rocchetta.htm

Analysis and Context

77

78

Analysis and Context

REGIONAL LAGOON

PELLESTRINA

SITE

CONSTRUCTING BARRIERS TO THE ADRIATIC SEA Human-made threats were not the only dangers residents of the lagoon faced. Flooding due to variations in tidal levels was a common occurrence, leading to the development of the Murazzi sea wall, a defensive structure comprised of impermeable limestone meant to mitigate against the erosion of urban structures. The Murazzi wall spans three barrier islands that enclose the lagoon: Pellestrina, Lido, and Chioggia. In particular, the seawall was constructed along the littoral environment of Pellestrina’s Adriatic Sea-facing side, complete with breakwaters to accumulate beach sediment and prevent coastal erosion.

More recently, the MOSE flood barriers have been constructed and placed at each of the three inlets to the lagoon. This extensive infrastructure endeavor is positioned to mitigate acqua alta events (MOSE Venezia).

Additionally, the MOSE project has engaged in restoration and climate adaptation projects within the lagoon itself, including the renewal of coastal erosion. This is the phenomenon by which land is displaced along coastlines due to the force and movement of water, and is a serious concern for the residents of Pellestrina and the adjacent barrier islands of Lido and Chioggia. The breakwaters that were constructed along with the Murrazi act as barriers allowing for sediment to build up and remain in place. The red arrow illustrates the movement of water along the coastline, while the red figures along the coastline represent the accumulation of sediment due to the multiple breakwaters that hold the sediment in place.

Collyn Chan

Analysis and Context

79

Elizabeth Haney

80

Analysis and Context

2.2 ACQUA ALTA AND FLOODING

Venice has a long history of coexisting with acqua alta flooding. Islands and rivers in the Venetian lagoon have been continually shaped by humans to protect against flooding, as elaborated in section 2.1 Geographical Context. In recent history, MOSE interventions were conceived to respond to acqua alta events.

Flooding from more frequent acqua alta is a significant concern. Over the past century, the frequency of acqua alta has increased from fewer than ten times a year to more than 60 times a year. This dramatic rise in the number of acqua alta events is due to a combination of a) subsidence of the ground on which Venice is built and b) sea level rise.

Acqua alta impacts businesses, degrades buildings and cultural landmarks over time through salinity, and disrupts daily life. This phenomenon is caused by a combination of astronomical conditions, meteorological conditions, and Seiche (standing wave) in the North Adriatic Basin, all of which are explained later in this chapter.

The chart below shows the increase in the frequency of acqua alta events represented by the number of bars. The red line indicates the combination of subsidence and sea level rise relative to the base case zero tidal gauge represented in the blue line.

High water events in Venice

200

Centimetres above zero tidal gauge Source: Trincardi et al., 2016

180

1966 160

140

120

2020

2010

2000

1990

1980

1970

1960

1950

1940

1930

1920

1910

100

Analysis and Context

81

SITE

ASTRONOMICAL The position of the moon relative to the Earth and Sun affects regular tidal oscillations.

Spring tide & semi-diurnal: During the periods of the month with a new moon and full moon, the waves have maximum amplitudes, called spring tides. During these periods of the month, the daily tides in Venice are semi-diurnal. A tide is semi-diurnal if there are two values of high tides and two low tides in 24 hours, and the two high values and two low values are about the same height, respectively.

REGIONAL

LAGOON

PELLESTRINA

Neap tide & mixed semi-diurnal: During the periods of the month with the first and last quarter of a moon, the tides have a smaller range in amplitude, called neap tides. During these periods of the month, the daily tides in Venice are mixed semi-diurnal. A tide is mixed semi-diurnal if there are two high and two low tides of different heights in 24 hours.

Source: bayoffundy.com

82

Analysis and Context

METEOROLOGICAL Prevailing winds generate storm surge and force water into the Venetian lagoon.

Sirocco winds: The winds from the southeast blow up along the narrow, shallow Adriatic Sea, which pushes water into the Venetian lagoon. While these Sirocco winds are generally light to moderate in strength, they blow over a long fetch over the Adriatic Basin and are the primary contributor to storm surge in Venice, which sits at the end of the body of water.

Bora winds: These winds emanate from the mountains in the northeast of Venice. The intensity of the winds are sometimes stronger than the Sirocco, but has a limited effect on the storm surge in Venice due to the short area over which the wind blows.

a r o B

o cc ro

Si Analysis and Context

83

SITE

WINDS IN THE LAGOON PREVAILING WINDS EXACERBATE FLOODING Winds have a substantial impact on the currents in the lagoon. The maps on the right indicate the residual current (the observed current minus the astronomical tidal current) in the lagoon due to the Sirocco and Bora winds.

PELLESTRINA

Given that the winds are seasonal, acqua alta typically occurs during the fall and winter months between October to February.

ALTA EVENTS ACQUA JAN.

M AY

G AU

.

APR .

SEPT.

OCT.

MAR.

LAGOON

B.

FE

NO V.

DEC.

REGIONAL

JULY Analysis and Context

JUNE

84

Sirocco wind, intensity of residual currents (cm/s) 0 - 0.6 0.6 - 1.1 1.1 - 1.7 1.7 - 2.2 2.2 - 2.8 2.8 - 3.3 3.3 - 3.9

oc Sir

3.9 - 4.4 4.4 - 5 >5

co Source: Atlante, 2002

a r o B Bora wind, intensity of residual currents (cm/s) 0-2 2-3 3-5 5-7 7-8 8 - 10 10 - 12 12 - 13 13 -15 > 15

Source: Atlante, 2002

Analysis and Context

85

SITE

CURRENTS ON SITE The MOSE project has altered currents in the Malamocco inlet. The narrowing of the Malamocco inlet and the creation of breakwaters from the MOSE project have increased the velocity of currents, and create a vortex pattern of water just east of the site.

REGIONAL

LAGOON

PELLESTRINA

Currents and velocity prior to MOSE interventions (top) and after narrowing of the inlet (bottom). Source: Matticchio, et al., 2017.

Azka Mohyuddin

86

Analysis and Context

L. CARNIELLO, D. CANESSO, E. ZIGGIOTTO, M. CORDELLA MATTICCHIO, L. CARNIELLO, D. CANESSO, E. ZIGGIOTTO, M. CORDELLA

Fig. 8 - Bocca di Malamocco. Confronto tra i c calcolati con il modello bidimensionale consider zate: 2003 e 2012.

I risultati modellistici (Fig. 9) mostra delle “fasce di partiacque”, identificata pe agli interventi alledi bocche (linee verdi), occa di Malamocco.

Confronto tra i campi velocità in flusso entrante o. ilConfronto tra i campi di (linee velocitàlenere). in entrante on modello bidimensionale considerando dueflusso configurazioni analizantecedente e 2012. mensionale considerando due9configurazioni Dalla leFig. si evince, inanalizparticolare, Analysis Context cini(Fig. dominati dalle dianddei Lido e87di M ultati modellistici 9) mostrano chebocche la posizione limiti

CVN MOSE Venezia

88

Analysis and Context

2.3 SEA LEVEL RISE & CLIMATE PROJECTIONS

Sea levels, flooding, temperature, and precipitation are changing, and the impacts of global climate change will be felt locally. Sea level rise will exacerbate inundation from acqua alta events in the lagoon. Changes in temperature and precipitation will also have substantial impacts on the quality of life in the lagoon.

and below mean sea level.

FUTURE TOTAL WATER LEVEL

STORM SURGE Storm surge refers to the height of the abnormal rise in water level as a result of a storm and can produce water levels much higher than usual high tide. Storm surges are caused by surface winds (Sirocco and Bora winds) and mean sea level pressure variations that alter the astronomical tidal oscillations. The combined height of the predicted astronomical tide and the storm surge is called a storm tide.

Future water levels are a function of a combination of astronomical tides, sea level rise, and storm surge.

ASTRONOMICAL TIDE Astronomical conditions dictate the natural tidal oscillations, as previously described. The maximum astronomical tidal range in Venice is 50cm above

SEA LEVEL RISE Sea levels will rise as the oceans become warmer because of climate change. The total water level with sea level rise represents the “new normal” which will permanently inundate low-lying areas.

Storm Surge Sea Level Rise Astronomical Tide

Total Water Level Diagram of elements of total water level during storm events

Analysis and Context

89

SITE

SEA LEVEL RISE PROJECTIONS PROJECTIONS This study uses sea level rise scenarios of 110cm and 160cm by 2100 in Venice. Global sea level rise projections, which are higher than the scenarios used in this study, cannot be applied to the Mediterranean Sea for several reasons:

in the Mediterranean also impacts the outflow and inflow from the Atlantic through the Strait of Gibraltar. Due to these complications, the project impact of global sea level rise on the Adriatic is unclear and accurate sea level rise models for this area still need to be created.

PELLESTRINA

Global models do not accurately take into account the Mediterranean Sea. The models’ grid scales are too large to capture the Strait of Gibraltar, the narrow waterway through which the Mediterranean connects to the Atlantic Ocean. The vertical resolutions of the models also do not capture the shallow Adriatic Sea.

REGIONAL

LAGOON

Globally, the thermal expansion of water from increases in temperature is the major contributor to rising seas. However, in the relatively contained Mediterranean, salinity is another crucial driver to changes in sea levels. Greater evaporation from warmer temperatures and decreases in precipitation lead to increases in salinity of the water body.

Higher salinity results in more dense water, which may decrease water levels. The density of the water

Azka Mohyuddin

90

Analysis and Context

Today

110cm Rise

160cm Rise

Current mean sea level is 30cm above the tidal gauge at Punta della Salute

Analysis and Context

91

SITE

TIDAL RANGES AND REFERENCE POINTS The diagram below shows the future sea level rise scenarios relative to the altimetric and bathymetric reference points. For each sea level rise scenarios, the red arrows indicates the height of the astronomical tidal ranges and storm surge equivalent to the 1966 event.

della Salute is currently 23.5cm above the altimetric datum due to subsidence and other factors.

Currently, the actual mean sea level is 30 cm higher relative to this reference point.

Meanwhile, altimetry refers to the IGM 1942 datum, the official datum of the Italian national altimetric network. Topographers use this datum as the 0 reference point and refer to it as “mean sea level.”

It is 23.5 cm above the Punta della Salute reference point. Currently, the actual mean sea level is 6.5 cm higher relative to this reference point.

PELLESTRINA

REFERENCE POINTS The datum reference points from which sea level is measured differ for bathymetry and altimetry: Bathymetry tidal heights refer to the tide gauge at Punta della Salute as the 0 reference point. Punta

Altimetric Measurement (IGM 1942 Datum) Bathymetric Measurement (Punta de Salute Datum)

Storm Surge equivalent to 1966 High Tide Mean Tide Low Tide

LAGOON

3.67 3.90 3m Highest Platform Elevation

3.17 3.40

2.37 2.60 2m

1.87 2.10

1.1m: MOSE Activated 1m

1.37 1.60 0.87 1.10

0.57 0.80

REGIONAL

0.37 0.60 -0.44 -0.20

Today

92

Analysis and Context

+110cm

+160cm

Lagoon Overtopping (1.4m)

Murazzi Overtopping (5.2m)

Source: Franco and Tomasicchio, “Hydraulic and Mathematical Modelling of Historical and Modern Seawalls for the Defence of Venice Lagoon.”

Analysis and Context

93

SITE

FUTURE INUNDATION Significant portions of Pellestrina will be permanently inundated from the lagoon side under the 110cm scenario and most of Pellestrina will be permanently inundated under the 160cm scenario.

Flooding will be exacerbated during acqua alta events; these flood maps do not take into account storm surge associated with acqua alta events.

PELLESTRINA

The MOSE gates are designed to protect against storm surge, not chronic sea level rise. Pellestrina and the rest of the lagoon may need to undertake adaptation measures to ensure resilience under these future sea level rise scenarios, such as increasing the height of the mini-walls on the lagoon side.

REGIONAL

LAGOON

It is critical to note that these flooding maps are preliminary, and the methodology needs to be refined. The methodology (from MIT Summer Workshop 2017) is based on land elevation points scattered throughout the island rather than sea level and flood modeling. The methodology does not account for the mini-wall adaptation measures on the lagoon side of the island, which may mean fewer areas will be permanently inundated under the 110cm scenario. The mini-walls are between +1.30 and +1.40 m high with respect to the IGM zero of 1942. Lastly, the analysis was not conducted at a granular scale, which would be particularly useful for site planning purposes.

Azka Mohyuddin

94

Analysis and Context

110cm

160cm

Analysis and Context

95

SITE LAGOON

PELLESTRINA

110cm 160cm

PELLESTRINA AT RISK The platform, built 3m above mean sea level, will not be inundated under either of these 110cm or 160cm sea level rise scenarios. However, the site is at risk of inundation from storm surge during acqua alta events with the sea level rise scenarios.

REGIONAL

Although the site is higher than projected sea levels for 2100, permanent inundation on parts of the rest of Pellestrina will affect mobility, the environment, the economy, and even the viability of living on the island.

96

Analysis and Context

TEMPERATURE AND PRECIPITATION In addition to sea level rise and flooding, other climate conditions are also changing.

RECENT CLIMATE Recent climate conditions serve as a baseline for understanding future projections. In the Veneto region, summers are hot and mostly dry, and winters are cold and wet. Over the past 50 years, temperatures have increased significantly during every season, especially summer and winter maximums and summer minimums. Winter rainfall has decreased over the past 50 years.

PROJECTED CLIMATE According to the Italy 2017 National Plan for Adaptation to Climate Change, in the Venice climate region: • temperatures are projected to continue to increase, • the wet winter season will become wetter, and • the dry summer season will become drier.

Intensification of winter rains may cause riverine flooding in the drainage basin and exacerbate water levels and acqua alta.

The table shows 2021-2050 climate projections for the Venice climate region under the greenhouse gas emissions scenarios RCP4.5 (moderately low emissions scenario) and RCP8.5 (business as usual). These climate trends are projected to continue into 2100.

1981-2010

2021-2050

Projected change under RCP4.5 & RCP8.5 emission scenarios

Average annual daily temperature (°C)

13

+1.2 to +1.5

# days/year above ~30°C

34

+14

# days/year below 0°C

51

-9 to -27

Total precipitation in the winter months

187 mm

+8% to +16%

Total precipitation in the summer months

168 mm

-25% to -14%

95th percentile of precipitation (mm)

28 mm

+11% to 9%

# days/year with intense rainfall (daily precipitation greater than 20 mm)

10

+1

Source: PNACC, 2017

Analysis and Context

97

SITE

TEMPERATURE AND PRECIPITATION Changes to temperature and precipitation will impact Pellestrina’s residents, environment, and economy. Below are a few examples of climate impacts.

PELLESTRINA

Health: Extreme heat can cause heat stress. Young and elderly populations are particularly vulnerable.

Heat & runoff: Some parts of the island are more vulnerable to impacts from extreme heat and intense precipitation. Areas with high levels of impervious surfaces are less likely to have natural tree canopy to provide shade and more likely to contribute to rainwater runoff and localized flooding.

LAGOON

Fisheries & economy: Increases in temperature, increases in evaporation, and decreases in rainfall in the summer will affect the marine environment and economy in the Venice Lagoon through changes in water temperature, salinity, and nutrient concentrations.

REGIONAL

Vegetation & canopy: Vegetation tends to be more sensitive to changes in climate than humans. Minor changes in temperature and precipitation can negatively impact the health of plants on the island.

98

Analysis and Context

Pervious Impervious

Azka Mohyuddin

Analysis and Context

99

Elizabeth Haney

100

Analysis and Context

2.4 PEOPLE

The demographics and population trends of residents are similar across the lagoon: an older generation and a declining population due to age and emigration.

The lives of the residents of Pellestrina are closely tied to other islands in the lagoon and the mainland. Pellestrina residents are dependent on the lagoon for jobs and daily services.

ALBERONI SANTA MARIA DEL MARE SAN PIETRO IN VOLTA

PELLESTRINA

DEMOGRAPHICS Population size, gender, and age by village (2010 Census. Source: Comune de Venezia, 2010) Alberoni Total population: 952

¯

500 400

314

300

235

200 100 0

284

119 57

107

62 0 to 18

Male

128

151 163

19 to 40

41 to 64

Female

Total Alberoni Population

176 108

65 and over

Analysis and Context

101

SITE

Santa Maria del Mare Total population: 101

PELLESTRINA

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

84 70

0

0

0

0 to 18

0

0

10

0

19 to 40

Male

Female

7

17

41 to 64

14

65 and over

Total Santa Maria del Mare Population

San Pietro in Volta Total population: 1,204

LAGOON

500

403

400 298

300 200 100 0

209 114 95

0 to 18

REGIONAL

Male

102

Analysis and Context

158 140

19 to 40

Female

294 204 199 127

41 to 64

167

65 and over

Total San Pietro in Volta Population

Pellestrina Village Total population: 2,788 965

1000 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0

780

440 241

407

466

373

603

499 281

199

0 to 18

19 to 40

Male

Female

41 to 64

322

65 and over

Total Pellestrina Population

POPULATION TRENDS Venice’s population is declining. Since 2014, the city has lost approximately 6% of its residents. Pellestrina’s population is also declining, despite regular births and new immigrants to the island.

From 2008 to 2017, Pellestrina saw the following population trends: • Births: +266 • Deaths: -588 • Immigrants: +558 • Emigrants: -691

Pellestrina Island Population 4500 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500

Source: Comune de Venezia, 2018; Gruppo 25 aprile, 2019.

1000 500 0

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

Analysis and Context

103

SITE

EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT RESPONSES FROM PELLESTRINA RESIDENT SURVEY Data collected by 2018 Summer Students from Università Iuav di Venezia and CISET. 18 permanent residents from Pellestrina were surveyed and most responded that they:

PELLESTRINA

• Are employed (2 out of 18 unemployed) • Work in a wide variety of fields: medicine and food service are most common • Own their home

Highest level of education 6%

Middle school diploma 44%

LAGOON

50%

Secondary school diploma University degree

Where do you work or study?

7.7%

Lido 30.8%

REGIONAL

30.8%

Analysis and Context

Pellestrina Chioggia

30.8%

104

Venice

Azka Mohyuddin

Analysis and Context

105

106

Analysis and Context

2.5 ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS

The Venetian lagoon, which is bordered by Pellestrina Island, is a human-made ecosystem in constant need of protection against natural forces.

What began as a shallow estuary formed by natural processes transformed into a haven for communities fleeing from the aftermath of the collapse of the Roman Empire (Avventure Bellissime). However, the original conditions of the lagoon were unfavorable for sustaining human life, prompting authorities to intervene and alter the naturally occurring ecosystem in ways that would position the region as an essential center for trade.

Venetians, as well as neighboring island communities of the lagoon, faced many challenges in altering the natural landscape to establish a livable environment. Although communities of the lagoon were able to transform the region extensively, nature can never fully be tamed. Thus, historical adaptation efforts, as well as naturally occurring processes, have shaped the environments of both the lagoon and Pellestrina, resulting in the current habitat experienced by residents today.

Source: CVN MOSE VENEZIA

Analysis and Context

107

SITE PELLESTRINA LAGOON REGIONAL

Source: ATLANTE

108

Analysis and Context

GEOLOGICAL FORMATIONS

ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTATION

The formation of the Venetian lagoon began during the Quaternary period in which minerals from the Dolomite Mountain range were deposited into the then-landlocked body of water. The weathering of the Dolomites has been a constant struggle for communities within the lagoon, as the minerals carried from the Dolomites into the inlet lead to sedimentation, causing silt and other materials to accumulate.

There is an ancient Venetian proverb that illustrates three significant challenges of the Venetian lagoon throughout history. It states that the main enemies of the Venetian lagoon are the earth, the sea, and man (Marzo, 2012).

The figure on the left depicts the Malamocco inlet, which houses the MOSE site that is analyzed and developed throughout this report. Data from a 1980 sampling is used to illustrate the concentration of carbonate in the lagoon, as well as provide a sense of weathering and sediment deposition from the river to the lagoon.

These three elements brought about different challenges for residents of the Venetian lagoon.

From coastal erosion caused by flooding to sedimentation produced from large mainland rivers connected to the lagoon, Venetians were forced to adapt to natural processes.

Additionally, rival forces seeking to claim the lagoon were a constant threat, prompting Venetian authorities to fortify the islands throughout the region. This threat led to the construction of defense structures capable of halting invading forces.

ADAPTATION MECHANISMS Earth

Diversion of rivers Dredging of canals

Sea

Planting of flora Use of sludge from channels Construction of sea walls

Man

Fortification of islands through- out the lagoon

Source:(Marzo, 2012)

Venice / Venezia by Gabriel Bucelin

Analysis and Context

109

SITE

ECOLOGY ZONAL DISPERSION OF FLORA THROUGHOUT PELLESTRINA A wide range of ecological habitats can be found throughout Pellestrina Island. In general, there are four types of environments: woodlands, littorals, meadows, and areas with sparse amounts of flora.

PELLESTRINA

When analyzing the ecology of Pellestrina holistically, several trends arise about the dispersion of certain types of flora throughout the island. The northernmost and southernmost edges of the island contain mature woodland and shrub ecosystems.

The interior of the island is primarily comprised of agricultural and urban managed landscapes.

Meanwhile, the Adriatic Sea-facing edge of Pellestrina is populated by growing dunes, and vegetation to support dune formation.

REGIONAL

LAGOON

Additionally, the positioning of the Murazzi seawall at the edge of Pellestrina’s urban form creates a corridor between the flood barrier and dunes that are directly adjacent to the island’s beachfront. This corridor is a barren landscape with little vegetation.

Shrub — woodland

Vegetation — meadow

110

Analysis and Context

Santa Maria del Mare

San Pietro in Volta

Shrub — littoral

Sant’Antonio di Pellestrina

Pellestrina

Vegetation — sparse

Source: Atlante della laguna open data portal

Villagio Caroman

Analysis and Context

111

Azka Mohyuddin

112

Analysis and Context

2.6 MOBILITY

Venice is a part of a larger regional economy, the Greater Veneto Region, which it is connected to by road and rail. The region’s public transportation company, Azienda del Consorzio Trasporti Veneziano (ACTV), provides an extensive transportation network by land (buses and trams) and sea (frequent small passenger ferries known as vaporetti). Additionally, international airports connect the Greater Veneto Region to international travelers.

Venice's mainland port is Porto Marghera and is adjacent to Mestre and handles about 4,000 oceangoing vessels annually, which transit the Malomcco Inlet to reach the port. Approximately 400 large cruise ships dock in Venice each year, chiefly during summer months; these boats use the Lido Inlet further north.

Treviso

Vicenza

Padua

Main roads Railroads Airports

Venezia

ACTV

Vaporetti Bus Analysis and Context

113

SITE

Commercial Traffic: Petrochemical & Container

PELLESTRINA

3.593

port calls a year

LAGOON

Local Traffic: ACTV, Pleasure Craft, Fishing

REGIONAL

221

fishing vessels in 2018 Chioggia Fishing Fleet 114

Analysis and Context

MAJOR WATER TRAFFIC FLOWS Flows of water traffic within the lagoon can be separated into four categories. Ocean-going passenger ships use the Lido inlet. Commercial traffic destined for Porto Marghera such as petrochemical and freight container vessels pass through the Malamocco inlet. Local traffic is comprised of ACTV vaporetti, smaller personal boats, and fishing craft. This type of water traffic travels mostly along the lagoon-facing side of the barrier islands. The island of Chioggia has a fishing fleet of 221 fishing vessels that use the Chioggia inlet to travel between the lagoon and the Adriatic.

TRANSPORTATION AND VEHICULAR ACCESS ACTV’s transportation system allows access to the barrier islands of Pellestrina, Chioggia, and Lido. Vaporetti — passenger vessels that provide

transportation services in the Venetian lagoon — have numerous frequent routes that flow from Venice to outlying islands and south, via a bus connection, to Chioggia. Most vaporetto routes are relatively short, as longitudinal trips on the islands use buses which are faster. For example, a trip from Chioggia to Venice includes two vaporetti legs as well as a bus trip along Pellestrina and Lido, with the bus using a passenger ferry to travel between the islands.

Upon arrival to one of the barrier islands, passengers have the option of using ACTV’s public bus system to navigate the area. Additionally, larger ferry services allow passengers to transport motor vehicles by sea to various destinations throughout the lagoon. This is a useful service for individuals that prefer private transportation to ACTV’s public bus service. The only private vehicle access to Pellestrina is via the ferry which serves the north end of the island.

Elizabeth Haney

Analysis and Context

115

SITE PELLESTRINA LAGOON

Malamocco Inlet

REGIONAL

N 0

116

Analysis and Context

2.5

5km

Malamocco Inlet

N 0

2.5

Analysis and Context

5km

117

SITE

SECTION A: STRADE DI Murazzi AT SAN PIETRO IN VOLTA BATTERY WALL

PELLESTRINA

Street Murrazzi 4m 3m

SECTION B: VIA SCARPA ON LAGOON

LAGOON

Street 5m

Parking 2m

REGIONAL

SECTION C: STRADE DI Murazzi BUS STOP ID: 4623

Parking 7m

118

Analysis and Context

Street Sidewalk 1m 6m

ROADS VEHICULAR MOBILITY Pellestrina has a network of roads along the spine of the island, with one main north-south road and other intersecting roads in villages. The width of roads on Pellestrina varies, depending on their location on the island.

These section drawings depict variations in street sizes based on locations throughout Pellestrina. The section depicting the Strade Di Murrazzi illustrates how narrow streets can be in more compact areas of the island, where some roads are as narrow as four meters. The “Via Scarpa” section shows that on the Adriatic Sea-facing side of the lagoon, roads offer small spaces for parking. Lastly, the section depicting the ACTV bus stop “4263” on Pellestrina illustrates how in some cases more ample room for angle parking is provided, and that public space can also be present in the form of sidewalks.

Analysis and Context

119

SITE SECTION A: PELLESTRINA CANAL

PELLESTRINA

11m

Lagoon Canal 70m

SECTION B: MALAMOCCO NAVIGATION LOCK Control Room

14m

LAGOON

Malamocco Lock

SECTION C: MALAMOCCO INLET

Panamax Ship Control Room: Spalla Norte

14 m

REGIONAL

11.5 m

120

Analysis and Context

Bocca di Malamocco 70m

CHANNELS MOBILITY ON WATER Aquatic mobility is an integral part of daily life for Venetians as well as neighboring island communities within the lagoon and is the cornerstone of, and catalyst for, economic activity within the region. Routes for mobility on water differ based on the type of ship, route, as well as the vessel's purpose for travel.

The following sections depict both the routes for access into the lagoon, near Pellestrina Island, as well as maritime travel routes within the lagoon itself.

Section A depicts the standard canal near Pellestrina, used by vaporetti and personal maritime vehicles in the region.

Section B illustrates the navigational lock channel of the Malamocco inlet. The navigational lock provides a route for ships to enter the lagoon when the MOSE flood barriers are in use, and the Malamocco inlet’s standard path of entry is closed off.

Section C shows the inlet’s depth and width in comparison to the size of standard freight ships that pass through the lagoon.

Control Room: Spalla Sud

Lock Entrance

Analysis and Context

121

Azka Mohyuddin

122

Analysis and Context

2.7 ECONOMY

The regional economy thrives on tourism, services, and industry.

The three cities in the region − Venezia, Padua, Treviso − have developed niche, interdependent economies. Each area specializes in particular sectors: the majority of financial services are located in Padua, tourist and administrative services are mainly located in the province of Venice, and Treviso is dedicated to industry. Furthermore, clusters of small and medium-sized, family-owned firms have been important for economic growth.

The services sector grosses the highest valueadded and is the largest source of employment, followed by industrial production. Employment in the agriculture and fishing sector has declined significantly over the past two decades.

The goods from the Veneto region are exportoriented and have been growing more relative to the export economy of the rest of Italy.

Analysis and Context

123

SITE

Industry

PELLESTRINA

Treviso

Financial Services

Venezia

LAGOON

Padua

REGIONAL

Tourism and Administrative Services

N 0

124

5

Analysis and Context

10km

SPECIALIZED SECTORS The islands within the Venetian lagoon also have specific economic sectors. The economy of Venice is based mainly on tourism. Lido and Chioggia provide daily services for residents. Marghera has an industrial economic history. The islands of Murano and Burano are known for craft products of glass and lace.

Analysis and Context

125

SITE PELLESTRINA

Azka Mohyuddin

Employment in Veneto by economic sector, 1995-2007

LAGOON

Sector

% CHANGE 1995-2007 (%)

1995

2007

Services

1 072 600

1 374 300

28.1

Industry

787 400

882 400

12.1

Manufacturing

659 000

688 300

4.4

Other services*

433 700

514 200

18.6

Financial intermediation, real estate, and other business services

167 000

293 500

75.7

Construction

128 400

194 100

51.2

Commerce, hotel and public activities, transport and communication, and producer services

95 400

119 800

20.1

Agriculture and fishing

94 800

71 700

-24.4

REGIONAL

*Note: Other services includes: public administration and defence, compulsory social security, education, activities of households, health and social work, and other community, social and personal service activities.

Source: OECD, 2010.

126

Analysis and Context

Clusters and metaclusters of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Venice cityregion, 2009 Padua

Treviso

Venice

• Biomedical cluster

• Prosecco cluster

• Murano art glass cluster

• Thermal spas cluster

• Sport system cluster

• Venetian shipyards cluster

• Industrial cooling and

• Bicycle production cluster

• Shoe production metacluster

refrigeration cluster

• Hotel equipment cluster

• Cultural heritage

• Dairy cluster

metacluster

• Fashion system cluster

• Veneto tourism metacluster

• Veneto district for lighting systems • Zootechnological

• Digital media metacluster

metacluster

• Wood furniture cluster • Sustainable housing • Rubber & plastic materials

Source: OECD, 2010.

Percentage of GDP sourced from exports, 1970-2008 40

Veneto

35 30 25

Italy

20 15 10

2008

2000

1990

1980

0

1970

5

Source: OECD, 2010.

Analysis and Context

127

SITE

TOURISM IN VENICE A KEY ECONOMIC DRIVER Venice and Chioggia received 835,000 tourists arrivals in 2017. This statistic excludes day-trip tourists, many of whom visit in the summer. Over 20 million total visitors came to Venice in 2017.

PELLESTRINA

Key drivers of the tourism economy include seasonal events, such as Carnevale and the Biennale. Anchor institutions that also support the local economy year-round include universities and the Port of Venice.

Pellestrina relies on sun and sea tourism, and hosts most visitors from April to August.

Tourism’s Contribution to GDP and Employment

LAGOON

Average growth 2016

2026

20062016

20162026

Travel & Tourism GDP (€ bn)

3.0

4.0

0.0%

4.2%

Total GDP (%)

11.6%

12.0%

-

-

Travel & Tourism Employment (000)

43.0

48.9

0.3%

1.3%

Total Employment (%)

12.7%

13.7%

-

-

REGIONAL

Source: WTTC, 2017.

128

Analysis and Context

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

ella ta d s e F

Saluta della a n don Ma

Regata B efana

VENEZIA TOURISTS

le

Ca rne va

GIA TOURISTS CHIOG DEC.

JAN.

B.

NO V.

FE

SEPT. G AU

.

.

APR

JUNE

Fest ad e l Boc olo

JULY

Bie na

e Art lle

sa Sen nga ella ogalo ta d ata V Fes Reg

Festa de l R e den tore

al ilm Festiv onal F i t a n r Inte ice Ven ca Stori ata g e R

OCT.

MAR. AY

M

Source: Sistema Statistico Regionale, 2017; Cerantola, 2017.

Analysis and Context

129

SITE

TOURIST TRANSPORTATION ENTRANCES AND MOVEMENT WITHIN LAGOON

PELLESTRINA

Most tourists enter the lagoon from Venice’s Piazzale Roma bus terminal and car park and Santa Lucia train station. The Port of Venice is also a major economic and transportation hub for tourists, local passengers, and cargo.

Most tourists stay in the historic city, but some explore the outlying islands, relying on public transportation. Pellestrina is accessible for tourists but exists on the outskirts of the lagoon outside of the tourist bubble.

Port of Venice: Cargo and Passengers 2017

2018

CHANGE (2017-18)

In

Out

Total

In

Out

Total

Total

%

Total Tonnage of Cargo (millions)

19,7

5,5

25,1

20,7

5,8

26,5

1,4

5,4

Number of local and ferry passengers (thousands)

103,8

100,2

204,0

106,6

102,0

208,6

4,6

2,2

1,6

0,1

9,2

Cruise passengers (millions)

1,4

REGIONAL

LAGOON

Source: Port of Venice, 2018.

Elizabeth Haney

130

Analysis and Context

MARCO POLO AIRPORT

MESTRE STATION

30 MILLION USERS

11 MILLION PASSENGERS

PER YEAR (2018)

PER YEAR

CRUISE TERMINAL

1.6 MILLION PASSENGERS

PER YEAR (2017)

N 2.5

5

10 km

Associazione Italiana Gestori Aeroporti, 2019. Port of Venice, 2017. Venezia Mestra, 2019.

Analysis and Context

131

SITE

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS POPULAR SITES IN THE LAGOON The culture and history in the Venice city center is the most popular tourist attraction within the lagoon. Most tourists come to see Venice’s unique art and architecture.

REGIONAL

LAGOON

PELLESTRINA

Tourists also frequent the historic villages on Murano, Burano, Torcello, and Chioggia which offer crafts, shops, and restaurants. Lido and Sottomarina feature popular beaches.

Pellestrina does not maximize the potential economic benefits from tourism and lacks a strong tourism anchor to promote on the island. The nature reserve Ca’Roman is the main attraction on Pellestrina, along with the bike paths, wild beaches and sense of being in a “real” lagoon community.

Azka Mohyuddin

132

Analysis and Context

TORCELLO BURANO

MURANO VENICE

LIDO DI JESOLO LIDO

ALBERONI

Cultural or Historic Tourism Ecotourism Beach Tourism

CA’ROMAN

N 2.5

5

10 km

CHIOGGIA SOTTOMARINA Analysis and Context

133

SITE

OPINIONS ON TOURISM RESPONSES FROM PELLESTRINA RESIDENT SURVEY Most of the surveyed permanent residents of Pellestrina (of total 18) responded that they: • Are in favor of developing Pellestrina for tourism • Believe the island could benefit from tourism • Are concerned about changes to daily life, damages to buildings and environment, and trash

PELLESTRINA

Survey data collected by 2018 Summer Students from Università Ca’ Foscari Venezia and CISET.

Number of Responses

How much would you be in favor of developing Pellestrina for tourists?

7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 1

2

3

4

LAGOON

Least favorable

5

Most favorable

Do you think that the presence of tourists damage the island?

6%

Yes No

REGIONAL

39%

134

Analysis and Context

56%

I do not know

PELLESTRINA ECONOMIC HISTORY Pellestrina’s economic history is rooted in agriculture and fishing. However, the sector is declining, and residents are dependent on other areas within the lagoon for jobs and daily services.

Island history Many agricultural spaces destroyed, turning people away from agriculture

Pellestrina become known for market gardening

1700

1800

1900

1966 GREAT FLOOD

RISE OF FISHING INDUSTRY

Dominance of agriculture as occupation - ortolani .

Decline of agriculture in favor of fishing

Source: MIT Summer Workshop, 2018.

Analysis and Context

135

SITE

ECONOMY AND SERVICES

1

There is only one supermarket on the island.

Food can also be accessed at seven smaller specialty stores or mini-markets.

PELLESTRINA

Bars and restaurants are clustered in villages throughout Pellestrina, especially towards the south.

6

3

LAGOON

9

REGIONAL

1

136

Analysis and Context

1

Azka Mohyuddin

Analysis and Context

137

Agritourism

SITE

Food and Drink Kiosk

PELLESTRINA

POP-UP BAR

AGROTOURISMO LE VALLI

LAGOON

FERRY TERMINAL

Ferry Stop

REGIONAL

BIKE PATH Bike Path 138

Analysis and Context

Local Tourism EXAMPLES NEAR MALAMOCCO SITE

N

0

250

500 2.5

5

Meters Kilometers Analysis and Context

10

139

140

Analysis and Context

2.8 URBAN FORM

The Venetian lagoon has various types of urban environments, expressed through idiosyncratic built forms. The urban form of destinations within the lagoon is tied to the culture and location of individual islands.

Each island has its own distinct set of characteristics that differentiate it from other urban forms, leading to a diverse array of buildings and infrastructure throughout the lagoon.

Vibrant colors and architectural forms on Burano Island

Analysis and Context

141

SITE

2

3

PELLESTRINA

1

4

BUILT FORMS IN THE LAGOON

REGIONAL

LAGOON

The urban form on each island reflects its own unique identity. Venice, Murano, and Chioggia are more closely related in their built form even though Chioggia is further away from Venice. Sant’Erasmo is very different from the other islands in the lagoon, mostly homes on large plots of land used for agriculture. Lido’s northern tip is different from the rest of the island; it is more tourist-oriented and modern in architecture. Pellestrina is made up of three villages that change in characteristics down the length of the island. It is known for its wild beaches, bike infrastructure, and the nature preserve of Ca'Roman at the southern tip.

5

0 142

Analysis and Context

6

2.5

5 km.

N

1

2

3

4

5

6

Analysis and Context

143

SITE DEVELOPMENT PATTERN ON PELLESTRINA

PELLESTRINA

Development in Pellestrina is concentrated on the lagoon side of the island. The major roadways span from north to south on the outer edges of the island.

Limited car-accessible roads connect the island from east to west with supplemental pathways for pedestrians and cyclists.

FRONT VERSUS BACK YARD RELATIONSHIP OF THE TWO BODIES OF WATER

REGIONAL

LAGOON

Most development faces the lagoon while the practicum site faces the Adriatic Sea. The Murazzi wall creates a visual and physical separation to the beach and the Sea.

N 144

0 Analysis and Context

2m

SANTA MARIA DEL MARE

':9*

The four main villages on the island are: 1. Santa Maria del Mare 2. San Pietro in Volta 3. Pellestrina 4. Villagio Ca' Roman

SAN PIETRO IN VOLTA

PELLESTRINA

VILLAGIO CA’ROMAN

Analysis and Context

145

!"#$%&'(

!"#$$%

!"#$

SITE PELLESTRINA LAGOON

SAN PIETRO IN VOLTA

REGIONAL

San Pietro in Volta is the second most northern village on Pellestrina island. Over time, the urban form of San Pietro in Volta has developed outwards from the Adriatic Sea-facing side to the lagoon facing side. Buildings closer to the lagoon-facing edge of Pellestrina island, including restaurants and shops, tend to have a small and compact footprint, as illustrated by the figure above.

146

Analysis and Context

As the built environment in San Pietro in Volta moves from the compact urban landscape of the lagoon-facing side of Pellestrina to the Adriatic Sea-facing side of the island, buildings begin to increase in size. Additionally, it is worth noting that a large portion of land used for agricultural purposes faces the Adriatic Sea, providing a buffer during major storm surge flood events.

Analysis and Context

147

SITE PELLESTRINA LAGOON

SANT’ANTONIO DI PELLESTRINA

REGIONAL

The village of Sant’Antonio Di Pellestrina has a development pattern that is similar to San Pietro in Volta. This pattern of development suggests that the lagoon side of Pellestrina island was built first, but with higher density and less open space.

148

Analysis and Context

!"#$ !"#$$% !"#$%&'(

The open spaces are often small and separated from each other, leading to a lack of an open space network. These spaces seem to be carved out of the developed parcels, creating interior and exterior courtyard environments.

Analysis and Context

149

SITE

Retirement home

PELLESTRINA

Agriturismo Restaurant

LAGOON

MOSE Worker’s Camp

SANTA MARIA DEL MARE

REGIONAL

Much like the Villaggio Ca' Roman, the village of Santa Maria Del Mare is an area with limited development. In addition to housing the practicum site and worker's camp for MOSE employees, the area includes a retirement home and a small restaurant. It functions as a gateway to the island.

150

Analysis and Context

Project Site

VILLAGGIO CA' ROMAN Villaggio Ca' Roman is the most isolated portion of Pellestrina island. Filled with an abundance of flora, it is comprised of a wildlife park, complete with a hiking trail, as well as an expansive beach. However, there is no car access to the area, and water transportation is limited, requiring a request for ferry transport to the village.

Analysis and Context

151

152

Analysis and Context

REGIONAL LAGOON

PELLESTRINA

SITE

CASE STUDY: PELLESTRINA’S CULTURAL LINK AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT There are certain aspects of the built environment throughout the Venetian lagoon that are consistent, regardless of the location and cultural values attached to a place. However, when comparing the urban form of the Venetian lagoon island habitats to one another, it is apparent that each island has its own distinct built form.

The distinction between the urban areas on Pellestrina and the neighboring island of Chioggia exemplifies the uniqueness of each island’s built environment. From streetscapes to public spaces, both islands have constructed urban environments with distinguishing characteristics.

The following pages act as a case study that explores the differences between urban landscapes on Pellestrina and Chioggia, focusing on comparisons between housing, public space, streets, and side streets.

Cars and canals in Chioggia

Analysis and Context

153

SITE PELLESTRINA

PELLESTRINA

LAGOON

Colorful facades in Pellestrina

HOUSING - Limited to three stories - Colorful facades - Narrow buildings - Single-family homes PELLESTRINA

REGIONAL

Variety of building shapes, development along lagoon border

154

Analysis and Context

CHIOGGIA

Piano nobile of Chioggia building

HOUSING - Larger buildings - Multi-family dwellings - Ornate facades along canal and large streets - Muted colors

PELLESTRINA

CHIOGGIA

Narrow building

Wider buildings Ornate facades

Analysis and Context

155

SITE PELLESTRINA

PELLESTRINA

LAGOON

Small piazza in Pellestrina

FORMAL PUBLIC SPACE

REGIONAL

- Limited in size - Spaces clustered near the main road along the lagoon

Components of typical square design

156

Analysis and Context

CHIOGGIA

Wide paths in a Chioggia garden

FORMAL PUBLIC SPACE - Larger dimensions — proportionate to different municipality size - More variety in terms of landscaping and design of space

Analysis and Context

157

SITE PELLESTRINA

PELLESTRINA

LAGOON

Commercial space along lagoon road

MAIN STREET

REGIONAL

- Activity clustered along the Venetian lagoon road - Narrow two-lane road used by all transport modes on the island except buses - Popular for walking but with limited commercial activity in the winter

158

Analysis and Context

CHIOGGIA

Outdoor seating along Corso del Popolo in Chioggia

MAIN STREET - Wide road for traffic, with covered sidewalks on either side - Shops and restaurants line both sides of the street - Heavy pedestrian traffic in the evening

Analysis and Context

159

SITE PELLESTRINA

PELLESTRINA

LAGOON

Residential alley in Pellestrina

SIDE STREET

REGIONAL

- One type spans the width of the island and consists of a straight line of houses along a private road - Another type is clustered near the lagoon, winding around a cluster of houses and terminating in the middle of the island

Side streets in Pellestrina

160

Analysis and Context

CHIOGGIA

Side street in Chioggia

SIDE STREET - Secondary streets are much wider than those in Pellestrina - There is a similar mix between straight and winding secondary streets

Side streets in Chioggia

Analysis and Context

161

Design Recommendations

Recommendation 1: Future of Fishing

Mary Hannah Smith

Angela Wong

166

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

3.1 FUTURE OF FISHING TEAM MEMBERS: ANGELA WONG, VANESSA TORO BARRAGÁN, ARI OSFEVIT

Repurposes MOSE’s infrastructure for a modern-day local economy based on new and traditional fishing technologies. Utilizes the uncertainty in sea level rise as an opportunity for adaptive aquaculture management.

MOSE’s opportunity is not just to protect the Venice historic center but to also offer the archipelago’s islands, such as Pellestrina, the infrastructure to reinvent themselves in the face of climate change.

Venice’s architecture is the living memory of the Repubblica di Serenissima and is intimately tied to the cultural identity of the Venetian lagoon.

With such prominence, the 1966 flood and the increased risk brought by a higher frequency of acqua alta events resulted in €5.5 billion of MOSE infrastructure to protect against future storms and levels of acqua alta above 110cm. However, islands of the Venetian archipelago are often forgotten in present-day urban development decisions, even though their existence is interconnected to Venice’s historic center. These islands have their own storm infrastructure (structural and nonstructural), cultural nuances, and local economies, and are nodes of a complete ecosystem that forms the Venetian lagoon (Cipriani 2017). As a barrier island, Pellestrina is the

first line of defense against storm surge for Venice.

As such, the future of Venice is interconnected with Pellestrina’s socioeconomic and environmental health. Therefore, this design proposal is driven by a central guiding question: “How can MOSE’s infrastructure be reimagined to focus on Pellestrina residents’ needs?”

This proposal brings attention to a lesser-known living historical memory, the fishermen and the fishing trade of Pellestrina island. The knowledge and culture embedded within the residents of Pellestrina can be brought to the 21st century with research infrastructure and local marketplace amenities.

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

167

MAIN AQUACULTURE SITE CROSS-SECTION Diagram depicting the future of fishing from "farm to table". The remaining platform section and syncrolift anchors the Adriatic sea's aquaculture programming with the main land's function of research, education, and economy.

Piazza, Insitute, and Mercato

Public Trail

Outdoor Laboratories & Nurseries

4m above msl Mean Sea Level (msl)

0-3 met

ers belo

Urban Fabric

w msl

Adriatic

Sea

3-10 m

Littoral Marsh Crab Cultivation Cages Shrub and Meadow

168

Submergent Marsh

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Clam & Mussel Cultivation Poles

eters be

low msl

Fish Processing & Warehouses Floating Wetlands

Polyculture of Fish Farming Pens

3m above msl 3m above msl Mean Sea Level (msl)

sl

Adriatic

Sea

1

0m

m low

be

Visitor Accessible Breakwater Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

169

DESIGN PRINCIPLES

1

BREAK THE HUMAN VERSUS NATURE BINARY The restore to nature directive can be accomplished by emphasizing natural conditions, but using the opportunity of MOSE’s infrastructure to strengthen the connection between communities and their dependent ecosystems.

Incisione di Andrea Zucchi, frontespizio di Della laguna di Venezia, Domenico Lovisa, 1718.

2

ELEVATE THE LOCAL CONTEXT The local culture of Pellestrina can form a 21st century local and low-impact tourist economy based on sustainable fishing which provides shared benefits for the community.

Fishing boat docked on lagoon side of Pellestrina Island, Site Visit January 2019

3

INCORPORATE ADAPTABLE ELEMENTS A resilient design incorporates elements that can be adapted to various sea-level rise scenarios, given uncertainty about future climate change projections for Mediterranean and Adriatic sea levels.

Monument to the flood of 1966 in San Pietro in Volta, Pellestrina. Site Visit January 2019

170

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

171

RESTORE TO NATURE DIRECTIVE SPIAGGIA DI PELLESTRINA The platform, constructed to support the manufacturing of the caissons and gates for the MOSE project, is slated to be ‘returned to nature’ according to the Nature 2000 directive from the European Union.

The Magistrato alle Acque is ultimately in charge of carrying out the directive, and also of working with the Italian government and the European Union to implement any proposals and changes to the MOSE project. Given the ecosystem approach of MOSE, the directive responds to the fragile and vulnerable environmental systems of the lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, which are also part of MOSE’s non-structural infrastructure improvements. For example, beach

restoration infrastructure has been implemented on Pellestrina to build up dunes and protect against storm surge. Perhaps in the early 2000s, prior to the construction of the platform, the directive to eventually remove the platform was an appropriate step to receive approval for the entire project. However, going forward, the future design and decision for the platform should integrate the demographic and economic challenges of the island alongside the uncertainty of the lagoon’s sea level rise. This approach requires reimagining what and for whom a return to nature approach is directed towards.

Platform, Consorzio Venezia Nuova (CVN) Website Gallery, Accessed May 2019

172

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Design rendering of future “Spiaggia di Pellestrina” with three possible scenarios by IUAV’s Alberto Cecchetto

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

173

PESCATORI DI PELLESTRINA

against the potential economic downfalls associated with the fishing industry. At this time, Pellestrina island was home to two fishing villages and cooperCENTURIES OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHING atives. One is the Pellestrina Cooperative with 236 fishermen who used specific boating equipment “The Venetian lagoon is an archipelago of islands which are all around the historic city center and add, in the past, a very im- such as ‘pizzo’ motorized boats (Silvestri, Pellizzato, portant significant role in the functioning of historic city Venice. and Boatto 2006). The other is the San Pietro in VolThey were the places where agriculture was done and today are ta Cooperative with 300 fishermen utilizing smaller the places where agriculture is still done.” - Mateo Basso, Ph.D. non-motorized boats (Silvestri, Pellizzato, and Boatto candidate, IUAV (January 28, 2019) 2006). Traditional forms of fishing involved the following methods: trawl nets, fyke nets, drift nets, Pellestrina is one of 100 islands within the Venetian seine nets, special nets, and a special tackle (see archipelago, including some permanently emergent figures to the right). marsh areas called barena and other larger islands such as Lido and Pellestrina, which serve as a solid 20TH CENTURY TO PRESENT barrier against the Adriatic Sea’s encroachment of the lagoon. Each island carries with it the regional The 20th Century saw the continued influence of identity of centuries of belonging to the Serenissifishing until by the 1960s a shift to modernize Venma Repubblica but separation by the lagoon waters ice saw the emergence of the manufacturing econitself has allowed strong local identities to develop omy in Porto Marghera. This had significant ecologiover the years. cal and economic effects on the fishing industry and societal repercussions. Water was pumped from the 12TH—19TH CENTURY aquifers of the region to supply the manufacturing industry, accelerating human-made subsidence for By the 12th Century, regulations from Venetian authe region. Chemical waste was released into the thorities were enacted to protect the movement of lagoon, and alongside increased dredging for comwater and fish resources. By the 15th Century, these mercial boat fleets, considerable damage was done regulations also gave way to considerable autonomy to the habitats of the lagoon that sustained the rich and prestige to guilds of fishermen from various isfishing resources. Fishermen either remained parlands and aided in the cooperation of various guilds ticipants of the fishing industry, moving away from for utilizing the resources of the lagoon. lagoon resources to the resources of the Adriatic open sea fishing or switched to the manufacturing From these guilds emerged the sociopolitical struceconomy. Today, this legacy has left uncertainty for ture of the Venetian fishing culture, with two guilds the future of fishing in the lagoon, despite strong holding particularly powerful influence in the relocal ties to this form of economic activity. A 2001 gion: ‘Corporazione di San’Andrew di Chioggia’ and study aimed to better understand the state of the ‘San Nicolo dei Mendicoli’ in Venice, and a central fishing economy in the lagoon region found that Magistrato alle Acque as a supervisor of the lagoon’s despite the decline in the sector, Chioggia remains management. Although politically, the fishermen of a strong fishing center and so too does Pellestrina, the lagoon exercised considerable political influciting that “22.5% come from the central basin, that ence in this society, the work itself was challenging, is from the islands of Pellestrina, San Pietro in Volta and in the 1880s a cooperative movement arose and the historic centre” (Silvestri, Pellizzato, and to unite resources amongst fishermen and protect Boatto 2006, p. 16).

174

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Traditional fishing methods used in the Venetian lagoon (Silvestri, Pellizzato, and Boatto 2006)

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

175

DEMOGRAPHIC SHIFTS The declining fishing industry is tied intimately with demographic shifts of the Venetian lagoon society.

Fishing is not embraced by the younger population who are looking for job opportunities and are moving to the mainland centers of Mestre, Padua, and Treviso. Lack of job opportunities in fishing, agriculture, and/or tourism puts the island’s socio-cultural future at risk and exacerbates the pressures of the tourism industry, shifting the Venice lagoon archipelago from a city to a ‘park’, utilized primarily by outsiders rather than its own inhabitants (Cipriani, 2017).

For a long time, the lagoon was a city, as food production, transport, and trade bound the land, the islands, and the mainland to its inhabitants, who in turn identified with the complex system known as city” (Isola di Possibilita, Cipriani 2017, pg. 44).

Basso noted in a lecture to our design team:

“In Pellestrina, the end of the 1990s, fishing was very important in the islands and people could stay on the islands they were very rich, they had a high level of income if they worked as fisherman. This has faced a crisis at the beginning of the new century [and also] because of environmental regulations of fishing activities. This has brought a decline in fishing, so younger people actually do not find any jobs. In Pellestrina, you have people between 55 years old and older that are wealthy people and people who are younger who have problems in terms of income who can’t find any job and need to move out of the island. It's an aging city.”

The lagoon faces many challenges today and it is clear that there remains a need to reimagine the role of the islands in the future of the Venetian lagoon. Professor Laura Cimprani from IUAV studies these possibilities in her research, noting that shifting population dynamics are a result not just of tourism pressures on the Venice city center but of a lack of regional identity that includes the city center and the archipelago that cradles it.

“A city is not just a more or less well-planned agglomeration of buildings, or a cultural, economic, administrative and political hub, but rather a social project in which the community living there identifies itself, a collection of tangible and intangible practices that define the places.

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Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Local Pellestrina resident fishing, Site Visit January 2019

N

SCALE COMPARISON LIDO BEACH The island of Lido is also home to 11.8km of beachfront facing the Adriatic Sea. However, the urban fabric of Lido is much wider since the width of the island is larger than Pellestrina’s. Pellestrina island’s northern tip, where the platform stands today, is one of the widest parts of the island. Density within this part of Pellestrina is much lower, with little development and mostly marshland. In contrast, Lido is more developed as seen in the above scale comparison. This shows that Pellestrina can likely use the site’s node as a place to develop a denser urban fabric, keeping in mind a more natural and sustainable approach.

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

177

FISHING: SPECIES, ABUNDANCE, AND PROSPECTS Lagoons are ecologically important habitats for a number of reasons: they provide marshlands for migratory bird species, filter nutrients in water through vegetative uptake, and provide marine species with nurseries to grow their young. They also offer their inhabitants a rich local economy. In 1994, the Venetian lagoon business contributed $80 million in economic benefits, directly and indirectly (Rosetto 2000). At that time and into the 2000s, the Venetian lagoon contributed 33% of Mediterranean fishery production. In 2011, after years of a slow decline of the fishing industry and an increase in the aquaculture industry, aquaculture businesses surpassed those of fishing in the lagoon (Zaccariotto 2014).

A number of species are of particular importance to the ecology and economy, these include: Mollusks: Mussels Clams (Tapes decussatus, native and Tapes philippinarum, introduced) Cuttlefish Crustaceans: Crabs (Carcinus mediterraneus) Shrimps (Crangon crangon and Palaemon spp.)

Fish: Great green goby “Go” (Zosterisessor ohiocephalus) Boyer’s sand smelt (Atherina spp.)

Flounder (Platichthys flesus) The economic activity is determined by the reproductive and life cycle stages of these species.

Mollusks and crustaceans are cultured or caught within the lagoon, often with dredging or traditional

178

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

methods, while fish are caught both at open sea and farmed in areas near the mainland called valle di pesca, or aquaculture basins.

To farm these species, you must catch the larvae and juveniles that travel into the lagoon looking for shelter during this critical stage known as ‘fry fishing’.

Migration of juveniles peaks at the end of winter or beginning of spring, locally known as the montata.

The inlet of Malamocco is one of the areas which has a high traffic of juveniles into the lagoon, offering an important opportunity for the fishermen and the local economy of Pellestrina.

Fishing management is regulated by the Magistrate della Acqua, the Citta Metropolitana di Venezia, and the European Union. There are a number of directives from the European Union that are aimed at habitat restoration, including the Habitats Directive (92/43/ECC).

This design proposal prioritizes Pellestrina as a focus for the future of fishing, given the opportunity of the MOSE platform and socioeconomic trends that point to a need to revitalize the future of fishing for the entire lagoon. Pellestrina can be the 21st Century leader of sustainable aquaculture, researching how to integrate floating vegetation with fish pens to provide water purification while at the same time producing low-impact food for the region. Furthermore, this site and environment can function as a nursery for species that have been declining within the lagoon and can help to revitalize and repopulate species that have been threatened as a result of the overexploitation and pollution to date. The proposal centralizes Pellestrina as the focus for this type of environmental research and local economic hub that supports the residents of this island and allows for a reasonable amount of public access to visitors that can see and be inspired by the leadership of Pellestrina’s sustainable food production and lagoon management.

CLAM CULTURE PERMITTED ZONES AND COMMON OPEN SEA FISHING AREAS JUVENILE FREQUENCY WITHIN LAGOON OF 4 SPECIES: Solea vulgaris (flounder, flat fish, sole) Platchtyhys flessus (European Flounder) Sparus aurata gilt-head (sea) bream (Sparus aurata), Dicentrarchus labrax (European Sea Bass, branzino)

Clam Fishing Areas Aquaculture High Fish Abundance

(291-456/m2)

Juvenile Abundance (60-80%)

Juvenile Abundance (40-60%)

Juvenile Abundance (20-40%)

Juvenile Abundance (0-20%)

Frequent Fishing Areas

(SOURCES: Vianello 2004 , Guerzoni and Tagliapietra 2006, Gabbi et al. 2014, Gabbi et al. 2016)

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

179

MATRIX OF OPPORTUNITIES

could involve a low traffic beach. An intermediary among these extremes involves partial removal of the platform and moderate management – an ideal Nature can be interpreted in a wide range of ways, especially when it involves a human-made structure. opportunity to incorporate Pellestrina’s economic history to have the site serve as a learning environAn organizing framework for interpretations and ment for adaptive aquaculture. potential design opportunities can be thought of along two spectrums, from platform permanence to The team evaluated the design concept using the platform removal, and high-use and management to low-use and management. If the platform is kept, matrix and the following evaluation criteria: feasibility, near-term affordability, long-term affordability, high-use could involve a heavily landscaped watertotal benefits, and innovation. side destination park. Meanwhile, there are precedents of human-made piers that have been kept in place for nature to take its course over time. In the case of platform removal, high management could involve a destination beach, while low management

Low Management

High Management

Keep Platform

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Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Remove Platform

https://ny.curbed.com/2018/8/31/17797174/nyc-parks-waterfront-architecture-design-brooklynbridge

BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK Brooklyn, New York, USA This park revitalized 2.1 km f Brooklyn’s post-industrial waterfront that was used in the 1700s as a valuable port and later contained warehouses as well. As part of the site plan, the six piers now offer amenities including:

Pier 1 and Fulton Ferry Landing - native salt marsh, waterfront promenade, hotels and restaurants

Pier 2 - 5 acres of active recreation (e.g. basketball courts)

Pier 3 - Greenway Terrace

Pier 4 - Beach with a nature preserve

Pier 5 - Athletic fields, playgrounds, picnic area

Pier 6 - Marsh gardens, volleyball courts, etc.

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

181

Pellestrina Island, Current Beachfront, Site Visit January 2019

PELLESTRINA ISLAND BEACH Pellestrina, Venezia, Italy Pellestrina island provides a little over 10km of beachfront to the Adriatic Sea. A design that returns the area to a beach would continue the corridor of the beach to the northern end of the island.

182

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE World aquaculture production has been increasing throughout the world, but the practice generates negative environmental effects of overcrowding, habitat destruction, and pollution from biological waste. However, overfishing is also a challenge towards meeting future needs of food production and consumption demand. Sustainable aquaculture aims to resolve the negative effects of traditional aquaculture and fish farms though research on best practices is ongoing.

Pellestrina can be a leader of sustainable aquaculture farming, traditional fishing methods, and local economic development.

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

183

SITE PLAN From right to left the Adriatic sea (1) will feed oxygen and salt water into an integrated network of floating wetlands and aquaculture pens (2,8), enclosed by breakwaters, existing and proposed (3-6). The aquaculture activities on the syncrolift and remaining platform section will be used for private use of research and fish processing (5,7) while the area will also provide public trail access to the aquaculture for small scale tourism (4, 6, 9, 13). Once on the mainland, an urban fabric of research buildings, fishing and agriculture markets, and restaurants will bolsters the local fishing economy.

16

15

14

12 11

7 13 10

9 8 6

184

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

5

LEGEND 1. New Adaptable Breakwater Design 2. Polyculture: mixed floating wetland and fish pens 3. Adaptable Breakwater created from repurposed concrete 4. Elevated walkway on breakwater for public access 5. Syncrolift 6. Elevated walkway and Adaptable Breakwater 7. Fish Processing and Outdoor Laboratories 8. Polyculture: marshland intermixed with crustaccean and mussle cultures 9. Marshland Trail connected to Murazzi and Breakwaters 10. Housing for visitors and researchers 11. Piazza de Santa Maria del Mare 12. CVN Access Only: Lock Channel and MOSE Operations 13. Artisan clam and mussel culture methods 14. Ferry Station 15.Existing Agritourism 16.Malamocco Inlet MOSE Gates

1 3

2

4

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

N 185

URBAN FABRIC

186

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

187

188

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

189

STRUCTURES Santa Maria del Mare, today a very small community, will maintain its small and traditional scale. The black buildings indicate proposed new infrastructure which complements existing senior housing and agritourism.

LEGEND New Buildings Existing Buildings

190

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

N 191

MOBILITY SYSTEMS The new site will use the existing mobility system for circulation to and from the ferry stop on the north west tip of the island to the Murazzi and Adriatic sea. New paths will further link this system to the remaining platform and syncrolift to transport cargo via cars; or include boat access within the aquaculture site for operational needs. Finally, public trail access will be available on the southern breakwater, extending the existing Murazzi biking and walking trail beloved by the local community.

LEGEND Vehicle Route Pedestrian Route Boat Route

192

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

N 193

OPEN SPACE Open space accessible to the public will be enhanced by the new piazza at the heart of Santa Maria del Mare which will be created by the combination of a fishing market, research institute, and agritourism restaurants and gardens.

194

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

N 195

COMPOSITE DIAGRAM

196

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

N 197

PROGRAM

198

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Occupied Area (calc) FAR (calc)

Main Category

Land Use Category

Aquaculture

Fishery (Adriatic)

273,500

0

0.00

Fishery (marsh)

53,522

0

0.00

Commercial

Fishery staging and processing

88,420

0

0.00

Breakwater (private)

11,590

0

0.00 1.00

Fish market School Restaurants

Residential

Total Area (sq. m) Building footprint (sq m.) # floors

Housing

Recreation and open space Welcome center

800

800

1

800

1,930

1,930

2.5

4825

2.50

600

600

1

600

1.00

2,620

2,620

3

7860

3.00

200

200

1

200

1.00

Breakwater (public)

15,500

0

0.00

Village plaza garden

3,410

0

0.00

Village backyard gardens

1,500

0

0.00

Fish market plaza

1,145

0

0.00

Football field

2,400

0

0.00

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

N 199

WATER ENTRY WAYS FLEXIBLE DESIGN

200

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

201

WATER ENTRY WAYS FLEXIBLE DESIGN

3m above msl +/- 160m +/- 110m

202

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

203

PIAZZA DI SANTA MARIA DEL MARE

Mercato del Pesce

A fish market that can be a hub for a local fishing, aquaculture, and agricultural economy.

Istituto

An institution for research on sustainable aquaculture and resiliency, that incorporates workforce development for the Adriatic Sea and its fishermen and women.

Forte Preservation

Restoration of forts for the preservation of cultural history.

204

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

A post-MOSE construction public space that incorporates the pillars of the Santa Maria del Mare and Pellestrina community.

Forte Preservation

Restaurants

Destinations for low-impact tourism that are based on showcasing local Pellestrina economies

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

205

PUBLIC ACCESS: BOARDWALKS

Trail through marshland

Trail to Adriatic Sea Breakwaters

Extends to viewing sites of the fishing pens.

Murazzi

Connects to marshland.

206

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

207

FISH SPECIES AND PENS Various options for fish pen designs exist and will vary with the proposed species and depth. This picture indicates the network of connection to provide stability and to anchor the nets.

(Francesco Cardia and Lovatelli n.d.)

(Francesco Cardia and Lovatelli n.d.)

208

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

Baicoli (Sea Bass) Ghiozzo go (Great Green Goby) Seppia (Cuttlefish) Granchio verde (Green Soft Crab) Passera (European Flounder) Anguilla (Eel) Latterino (Sea Smelt) Vongole (Clams) Palaemon (Shrimp) Sardines Acciuga (Anchovies)

(Vianello, 2004; Guerzoni, Tagliapietra, 2006)

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

209

PLATFORM DECONSTRUCTION MIRROR CONSTRUCTION AND REUSE OF MATERIALS Platform deconstruction presents an opportunity to reuse the concrete. The construction of the platform involved filling a border with a layer of dredged material capped with two layers of compact concrete.

Deconstruction to make way for an aquaculture site will retain most of the edge, break up the concrete to repurpose it for a new breakwater, and remove the dredged material for appropriate depths for aquaculture. A new breakwater will be designed a few meters north of the existing breakwater to protect the aquaculture area from currents around the Malamocco inlet. As explained in Section 2.2 Acqua Alta and Flooding, the Malamocco inlet was narrowed as part of the MOSE project and has created a vortex of currents just east of the site that can disturb the potential aquaculture environment. The remaining concrete from the platform will be reused to reinforce the Murazzi seawall along Pellestrina island.

As for the demolition of the platform, several standard methods could be utilized. Pneumatic and hydraulic breakers are often used in concrete demolition projects involving foundations and pavements and have underwater concrete demolition capabilities.

The concept of dismantling involves cutting concrete elements and then removing them by crane; this method is ideal for demolishing a certain portion of a structure such as a wall of a building. Another method is pressure bursting, which uses pressure in boreholes to split the concrete. Lastly, wrecking balls and explosives are used for large volumes of concrete but may create a lot of noise, dust, and vibration which may cause damage to the surrounding structure.

Pneumatic and hydraulic breakers may be the most suitable for the deconstruction of this platform site and would require consultation with civil engineers.

Construction in stages of the platform Source: https://www.mosevenezia.eu/

210

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

POTENTIAL PHASING FOR DECONSTRUCTION 1. Current platform 2. Demolish center portions 3. Create new breakwater reusing deconstructed concrete from the center 4. New aquaculture infrastructure

1

2

50.0

50.0

3

4

50.0

50.0

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

211

LAGOON SEASONALITY In addition to tidal cycles, the lagoon has a seasonal cycle of its fisheries and tourism uses.

212

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

STAKEHOLDERS European Union Repubblia Italiana Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport Venice Water Authority

Coop. Lav. Piccola Pesca “Pellestrina”

Comune di Venezia Community of Pellestrina Island

Design Recommendation: Future of Fishing

213

Recommendation 2: Resilience in Reuse

Mary Hannah Smith

Mary Hannah Smith

216

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

3.2 RESILIENCE IN REUSE TEAM MEMBERS: MARY HANNAH SMITH, ELIZABETH HANEY

This design idea brings together flood resiliency and tourism in a novel way. Tourism dominates the platform in the near future but cedes space to resiliency efforts as the environment changes.

A new form of coastal defense that builds on the site’s existing assets. Bringing life to the MOSE platform and preparing Pellestrina for a new era.

The MOSE platform presents a unique opportunity for the Island of Pellestrina. Rather than destroy the platform, CVN should develop it. The site’s elevation means that it is relatively secure from flooding and the threat of sea level rise. Its size means that it can accommodate a variety of different uses.

The location on the north end of the island, on the outskirts of the closest village but near public transportation and a beach, makes it an ideal spot to develop tourism on the island without disrupting life for current residents.

Resilience in Reuse is structured around the notion that different activities can share space, and that existing forms can be re-purposed for new uses as the need arises.

In the short term, the site can be used for tourism and events. Though the impacts on the lagoon are still uncertain, Climate Change will impact Pellestrina and likely lead to an increased risk of flooding. In the long term, the site can easily transition to a base for flood disaster response and recovery operations. The short-term uses provide new economic opportunities to the island, while long-term maintenance of the platform ensures islander resiliency in the face of an uncertain future.

In addition to the concrete platform, existing assets like MOSE gates and CVN activity could be incorporated into future uses. This design idea provides a venue to celebrate Venice’s history of coastal defense and defiance of flooding.

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

217

218

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

219

DESIGN PRINCIPLES

1 2 3

CONSIDER THE PAST AND FUTURE PELLESTRINA. A resilient design responds to a location’s history and projections for its future.

Climate change will impact island life, and future Pellestrina will need to deal with an increased risk of flooding.

Monument to the flood of 1966 in Pellestrina.

Resilience in Reuse helps ensure security from major flooding in the coming decades.

UTILIZE EXISTING ASSETS. The MOSE platform includes components that could be maintained as part of new development. Inspiration for the platform’s future can also be found in existing developments around Venice.

Canopy structures that are currently on the platform could be re-purposed as shading for new open space and events.

CREATE JOY. Build new and exciting spaces into the platform to spark curiosity and promote happiness, rather than focus solely on the site’s best practical uses.

Public art, like this wooden tunnel at the Vatican City Pavilion at the Venice Biennale, can serve a functional purpose, and make a place more enjoyable.

220

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

221

A mobile barrier in Pellestrina’s lagoon-facing wall. The island is not currently damaged by acqua alta like Venice, but sea level rise could increase its flooding risk.

SEA LEVEL RISE While the island is relatively secure from flooding at present, Pellestrina will be at risk of flooding from storm surge and sea level rise in the near future. This design concept considers how to protect the island’s residents from future disasters like the catastrophic flood of 1966. Space for disaster evacuation and response activities are included in the buildings on the site. It also envisions on-site activities to increase community resiliency, like retrofit construction demonstrations, and a public learning center focused on climate change.

222

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

Angela Wong Facing north, the platform is behind the wall to the left. Platform elevation is close to the height of the Murazzi seawall.

ELEVATION OF PLATFORM The MOSE platform is higher than most of the rest of the island, making it a real asset for the island, and a perfect site for recovery and evacuation in the case of disaster. In the future, if parts of the island become permanently flooded, housing built on the platform will be available for resident resettlement.

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

223

H

Malamocco Inlet

MOSE Platform Site

Office of Protezione Civile

Police Station

Gas Station

Chioggia Inlet

T

H

0

2.5

5 km

Map of infrastructure and services relevant to disaster relief for Pellestrina.

DISASTER RESPONSE The Protezione Civile is the government body that manages disaster planning in the Venetian Lagoon. It has an office in Pellestrina and a disaster management plan in place for the island. However, this plan is focused on present risks and does not take the effects of climate change on water levels into account. In the future, the organization may want to change its plan and locate its evacuation, relief, and recovery efforts on the site, because of its proximity to the ferry, space for large crowds, and relative security from flooding.

224

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

N

Angela Wong The logo of the Pellestrina Tourism Association found on a store window.

TOURISM

N

1 in =1900m

A small survey of Pellestrina residents completed 3000m in Summer 2018, found that residents were generally in favor of developing tourism on the island. This design idea would bring a hotel, campsite, and bungalows to the North side of the island. Visitors would enjoy amenities on site but would also have easy access to the ferry or the villages to the South. Major events could also be hosted on the platform for short periods, as an alternative location to sites in the already crowded historic Venice. This level of tourist activity could enliven the economy, but would not overwhelm Pellestrina residents because the site is detached from the nearest village.

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

225

N

SCALE COMPARISON SOUTH BOSTON South Boston, Massachusetts, is a neighborhood with a mix of open space, residential and industrial uses.

This site comparison illustrates the diverse mix of uses that can co-exist in an area like the MOSE platform.

226

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

N

ARSENALE DI VENEZIA Aresenale di Venezia is on the eastern edge of historic Venice. As in South Boston, this section of the city includes a mix of different uses. Many of the buildings in Arsenale are warehouses, which are now being used as exhibition space for the Art and Architecture Biennales.

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

227

H

228

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

SITE PLAN FULL EXTENT This design proposal preserves the MOSE platform and builds new structures for a variety of different uses. The plan includes three main zones: an industrial area for CVN operations and gate maintenance, a central zone used most heavily for large events and disaster management, and an outer zone for housing.

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

N 229

1 H

13

9 3

5

12

7 4 2

8 11

6

15

10 14

16

230

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

17

SITE PLAN WITH LABELED USES LEGEND

1. Cisterns 2. Campground 3. Fortress, with a new pedestrian path and interpretive signs 4. Elevated walkway built using MOSE caissons 5. Welcome center and main parking area 6. Bungalows 7. Cafeteria 8. Hotel 9. MOSE gate maintenance building 10. Restaurant 11. Lawns with shade canopies 12. Multi-use warehouses 13. CVN offices 14. Zone for flexible uses, as site needs arise 15. Open-air storage area 16. Boardwalk 17. Syncrolift

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

N 231

STRUCTURES Most of the platform will be developed with new structures. The industrial zone used by CVN, and including the original syncrolift, will be separated from the other structures with fencing. All existing permanent structures will be maintained on the site, with the exception of the worker housing. These buildings will be demolished and replaced with campsites.

LEGEND New Buildings Existing Buildings

232

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

N 233

MOBILITY The site will be accessible by all modes of transportation. The ferry to Lido is accessible by pedestrian and automobile paths. The site is also connected to the main bus route on the island. Bikes can be rented on the site, and a helipad is available in case of emergencies. Boat access is restricted to the industrial zone of the site.

H

LEGEND Bus Stop Vehicle Route Pedestrian Route Boat Route

H

234

Helipad

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

N 235

OPEN SPACE This design maintains existing trees on the site, while incorporating new open space into the platform. A boardwalk tracks the southern boundary of the platform, providing views of the Adriatic and activities on the site. Paved courtyards with trees divide each block of bungalow housing. Tree-lined paths connect to the center zone of the site. Large grass lawns occupy the center of the site, and include large trees and canopies for shade. Vines connect between buildings in the center zone to provide additional shade.

236

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Resilience in Reuse

N 237

COMPOSITE DIAGRAM

H

238

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

N 239

PROGRAM

Main Category Land Use Category MOSE Maintenance CVN Demo Control Room CVN Visitor Center Office Building Boat dock Mose Gate Storage Observation Tower Security Office Helipad Disaster Cisterns (2) Generators Clean water taps Warehouses (3) Shared Warehouses (7) Cafeteria 2-bedroom bungalow (6) Elevated 2-bedroom bungalow (12) 3-bedroom bungalow (6) Elevated 4-bedroom bungalow (16) Welcome Center Hotel Hospitality Toilets/Showers (1) Canopy (2) Camp Office & Store Toilets (2) Yurts (9)

Restaurant Cafe Kiosks

240

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Total Area (sq. m)

Number of floors

96 96 3600 2000 6000 60 24 1240 7080 4,595.33 10 1875 3050 1364 306 612 612 2240 3000 4844 1220 2083 328

1 1 2 1 5 5 1

460 152 43

1 1 1

496 220.5

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 1 4 1 1 1

N Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

241

ONE SITE: MANY USES

Bea ch

g

Much of the site’s facilities can be used for a variety of purposes. These diagrams use the Welcome Center as an example of how one section of the platform might be transformed by visitors.

242

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

y day Sunn | r oe

LAG

ES

nd

VIL

Isla

TO

ees | Evacuatio u c a n ev

REM E S O M RT A C I L PUB

LE A N N BIE ITION B EXHI

d

s ee

| Climate Bienn

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

a le

NANT

Exhibition atte n

TO FERRY

243

HOUSING ON THE SITE DIMENSIONS AND AMENITIES

TWO-PERSON CAMPSITE

FAMILY CAMPSITE

YURT

- 6.25 m sq - 80 m sq pitch area - 2 persons max - communal bathroom - pet-friendly

- 24 m sq - 80 m sq pitch area - 6 persons max - communal bathroom - pet-friendly

- 24.5 m sq - 2.6 m max height - 108 m sq pitch area - 6 persons max - one double-bed - two camp cots - communal bathroom - kitchen supplies provided

244

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

2-BEDROOM BUNGALOW

ELEVATED 2-BEDROOM BUNGALOW

- 51 square meters - 2 bedrooms - max 6 persons - a room with a queen bed - a room with a double bed - full kitchen with gas stove - bathroom with shower - A/C

- 51 square meters - elevated 10 feet - 2 bedrooms - max 6 persons - a room with a queen bed - a room with a double bed - full kitchen with gas stove - bathroom with shower - A/C

3-BEDROOM BUNGALOW

ELEVATED 4-BEDROOM BUNGALOW

- 102 square meters - 3 bedrooms - max 10 persons - two queen bedrooms - one room with double-bed - full living room with pull-out couch - full kitchen with gas stove - 1.5 bathrooms - A/C

- 140 square meters - elevated 10 ft - 4 bedrooms - max 12 persons - two queen bed rooms - two double bed rooms - full living room with pull-out couch - full kitchen with gas stove - two full bathrooms - A/C Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

245

SEASONALITY SITE USE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR TOURISTS Sea and sun tourists are expected to visit the site primarily in the summer months, when the weather is warm. The beach is their primary attraction.

EVENTS Satellite events from major festivals like the Biennale could be held on the site. New events like a Biennale focused on Climate Change science could also be held on the site.

YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES The welcome center would be open year-round and would house a Museum of the MOSE project and the Lagoon’s long history of managing water. Other activities on-site might include a climate adaptation learning hub for all lagoon residents.

246

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

UND ACTIVITIES YEAR-RO EVENTS

TOURISTS

Bi e

Co mm un it

CVN Op era tio ns

JUNE

JULY G AU

AY

Mu s e um

DEC.

Hub g n rni a Le n o ti

V. NO

B FE

.

OCT.

MAR.

APR

SEPT.

.

.

M

ce nan inte Ma ational Film Festival ntern ate ice I dG Ven an

b Hu y c n is lie e yR e Art e al nn

JAN.

of th

E OS eM

Ad a pt a Volume:

Low

Medium

High

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

247

SECTIONS EDGE CONDITIONS ON THE PLATFORM

SECTION A: MOSE DOCKS

OFFICE OFFICE

SECTION B: HOTEL, BUNGALOWS, BOARDWALK

HOTEL HOTEL HOTEL

248

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

A

B

FLEXIBLE WAREHOUSE

GATE MAINTENANCE

RESID ENTIAL

CAFETERIA

RESIDENTIAL

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

249

SUNNY DAY In the immediate future, the site will primarily be used by tourists and for events. Visitors will enjoy easy access to the beach, the ferry, and the rest of the island of Pellestrina. Families can stay in bungalows for longer visits, or in the hotel or campsite for a short stay.

250

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Visitors and Pellestrina residents can enjoy walking the boardwalk, which extends along the Southern edge of the platform. They can also visit the restaurants, cafeteria and kiosks on the site. Events will be hosted on the shaded lawns, but those spaces are open year round for recreation.

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

251

CLIMATE BIENNALE The MOSE platform site can host large events.

The warehouses and open space can transform into event space similar to Biennale spaces in the Arsenale di Venezia. The site has a hotel and catering facilities on-site and is accessible to Venice by the ferry. In the case of a large event, boats could be chartered from Venice directly and dock on-site.

The Climate Biennale would be a novel event

252

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

to bring together scientists, politicians, artists, and architects from around the world to focus on climate change. Venice’s long history in the continually changing lagoon environment makes it the perfect location for an event focused on adapting to new environmental realities. Artists could envision a new global future, experts could present their work, and visitors could learn about the latest science and strategies for adaptation.

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

253

MOSE MAINTENANCE The MOSE gates will need continuous maintenance to stay operational. CVN, or the new organization that takes over MOSE maintenance once construction is complete, will have space on the site to clean, refinish, and store gates before reinstalling them at each of the three inlets. After removing the gates from the inlet, they will be brought to the

254

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

platform via the syncrolift. They will be transferred to the maintenance buildings and restored. The site’s open-air storage area allows CVN to store a limited number of spare gates.

The organization in charge of MOSE operations and maintenance will also have office space on-site.

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

255

EVACUATION In the event of a major flood, Pellestrina residents will likely receive some advanced warning and may be instructed to evacuate the island. Residents from the island’s southern villages may head directly to the ferry to Chioggia, while those from San Pietro in Volta may instead be directed to the platform to leave their cars before proceeding by bus to the Lido ferry.

256

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Officials from the Protezione Civile can use the Welcome Center as an emergency headquarters during the evacuation period. If residents are unable to leave the island, there is space on the site for temporary shelters. Cisterns provide a reliable source of freshwater if utilities to the island are temporarily cut off, and other supplies can be stored in warehouses for use in this type of emergency scenario.

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

257

RECOVERY If a major disaster on the scale of the 1966 flood occurs in the future, the site could be used for recovery operations. Various government agencies involved in emergency management and recovery could use space in the warehouses for operations with the employee housed in the hotel. The welcome center could be used as a site to coordinate with residents, where they would go to learn about the resources available to help restore the island.

258

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Residents who were displaced could stay in bungalows until their homes are habitable again.

The bungalows could also be used for permanent housing if areas of the island are too damaged to rebuild. Construction supplies and equipment could be brought to the island by ship and stored on the site. Debris could also be stored here before being transferred off the island.

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

259

7. Resilient Home Demonstration Site

4. Multifunctional Warehouses 5. Living Shade

6. Industrial Remnants as Public Art

PERSPECTIVES

260

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

2. Maintaining the MOSE

3. Temporary Activation

1. Activating the Edge

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

261

ACTIVATING THE EDGE: SEAFRONT BARS Platform edges are sites of traditional kiosk bars.

262

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Elizabeth Haney

Elizabeth Haney

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

263

MAINTAINING THE MOSE CVN work site for operations and gate maintenance.

264

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

https://mosevenezia.eu

https://mosevenezia.eu

https://mosevenezia.eu

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

265

266

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

267

TEMPORARY ACTIVATION Existing construction tents can be activated with temporary uses.

268

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Elizabeth Haney

https://twitter.com/lawnond/status/ 1005811910640533504?lang=en; Elizabeth Haney

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

269

270

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

271

MULTIFUNCTIONAL WAREHOUSES Warehouses inspired by Arsenale can host events, temporarily house residents and serve as staging areas for reconstruction.

272

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

http://events.veneziaunica.it/content/arsenale-di-veneziatese-92-e-93

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:MODERN_ART_ RESEARCH_INSTITUTE_gallery.jpg

https://www.getemergencyready.com/

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2018_Houston_ Hurricane_Harvey_Disaster_Recovery_Visit,_Day_1_ (41654964741).jpg

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

273

LIVING & RESILIENT SHADE Trellises and vines between buildings provide shade.

274

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

https://www.flickr.com/photos/spyderball/71705914

Mary Anne Ocampo

https://www.thegoodwineshop.co.uk/blog/index.php/category/news/page/3/

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

275

276

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

277

278

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

279

INDUSTRIAL REMNANTS AS PUBLIC ART Remnants from MOSE construction become public art and lookout points.

280

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Elizabeth Haney

https://www.bdcnetwork.com/decade-after-it-debuted-beijing%E2%80%99s-798-arts-district-still-work-progress

Eli Duke; https://bit.ly/2KjBtpo

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

281

282

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

283

RESILIENT BUILDINGS DEMONSTRATION SITE Fort remnant buildings will be sites for experimentation and demonstration of techniques to retrofit historical buildings for climate change.

284

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Marissa Reilly

Marissa Reilly

Marissa Reilly

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

285

286

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

287

Recommendation 3: Murazzi 2.0

Mary Hannah Smith

Azka Mohyuddin

290

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

3.3 MURAZZI 2.0 TEAM MEMBERS: COLLYN CHAN, AZKA MOHYUDDIN, IN COLLABORATION WITH BRAXTON BRIDGES

This proposed development is an opportunity to transform the divisive infrastructure of Pellestrina’s Murazzi into a connection between villages, to local histories and all sides of the island.

Transforming a divisive infrastructure into a connector. This project proposes design elements that connect the villages of Pellestrina to its history, to the Adriatic and a site of new opportunity.

The location of the MOSE platform provides a huge opportunity for CVN to develop in place rather than destroy it. Pellestrina’s long history as a barrier island and protector of the region as created infrastructures that have divided island life, both north-south and east-west. The site is located at the north end of the Murazzi, at an elevation that is secure from most flooding predictions. It is close by to public transportation, the beach and a natural marshland that makes it an ideal spot for both tourism and a more recreational lifestyle that is wellconnected to the region. Easy access to the Adriatic and agricultural space supports the existing fishing and gardening industries on the island.

Murazzi from a seawall into a pleasant and active pathway that leads the villages of Pellestrina directly to the MOSE platform site. A development at this site, with the appropriate programming, can provide a destination the brings the villages on Pellestrina together, highlights the island’s histories of coastal protection and economic development, and provides a physical and intentional opportunity to open the island to the Adriatic and its uses.

Murazzi 2.0 begins with a transformation of the

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

291

292

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

293

DESIGN PRINCIPLES

1 2

MURAZZI AS A CONNECTOR. The Murazzi’s drive of urban form is now a connection between the island and the site.

The Murazzi runs along the entire island and acts as a back bone that separates development and the beach.

HONOR HISTORY OF PROTECTION AND RESILIENCE. The MOSE platform is the latest addition to Pellestrina’s long history or protection and resilience against rising tides.

Destruction of the Murazzi in Pellestrina following the floods in 1960.

3

BUILDING A RELATIONSHIP WITH THE ADRIATIC. The site will bring a closer understanding and connection with the Adriatic in both form and function, deviating from the form of the island today that preferences the lagoon side.

The Murazzi creates a physical and visual barrier to the Adriatic.

294

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

4

DEVELOPING THE LOCAL ECONOMY. The site will focus on keeping and creating jobs on the island as well as providing a transit gateway to other economic hubs in the region.

Few businesses are concentrated further south on the island.

5

REINVESTING IN LOCAL ART AND ARTISTS. The development will build on the history of artistry on Pellestrina as well as create a place for artist communties, tying Pellestrina to the other arts destinations in the region.

Pellestrina’s local history of silk making should be highlighted, such as these silk lace shops on Burano.

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

295

LAGOON

LAGOON

ADRIATIC SEA

Site view of the stark difference in development to the east and west of the Murazzi.

MURAZZI DIVIDES The Murazzi wall separates the beach from the rest of the Island with few points of access. At its widest, the beach and Murazzi make up to 1/3 of the Island’s width and at its narrowest, it is almost 1/2 the width of the Island. The seawall creates a spine, driving development orthogonally with the majority of buildings facing the lagoon side. The seawall becomes the back and with it, the Adriatic. The sea side is more barren and less utilized. In Murazzi 2.0, the seawall is redeveloped into a multi-modal pathway that connects the villages and ends at the MOSE site.

296

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

ADRIATIC SEA

Destruction of the Murazzi in Pellestrina following the floods in 1966.

HISTORY OF PROTECTION The original Murazzi was created in 1775. The great flood of 1966 destroyed the Murazzi and displaced island residents for months. Following the great flood, the wall was rebuilt to withstand the strength and surge of the same magnitude and flood. Jetties and groynes were installed in the late 1800s and rebuilt in the 1990s after destruction. MOSE barriers have been constructed on the island and CVN will continue operations at the lock gate in the Malamocco Inlet. This identity will be celebrated in Murazzi 2.0, by reclaiming the connection with the Adriatic, hosting a MOSE museum that features the history of protection on Pellestrina, and tourism that highlights the design of the site based on past structures.

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

297

Highest level of education 6%

LOYMENT

Middle school diploma

ey

44% 50%

Secondary school diploma University degree

Where do you work or study?

7.7% 30.8%

Lido 30.8%

Venice Pellestrina Chioggia

30.8%

SET

Survey results from 2018 MIT workshop.

ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES The population of Pellestrina is aging, while many of its residents leave the island for work or school, as well as for obtaining goods and major services according to a short survey completed by a MIT workshop in the summer of 2018. Fishing and tourism are major industries of the island with locals also participating in gardening and lace-making. Developing commercial and retail space on the site focused on creating local jobs as well as developing housing and transportation for ease of access to the region is key to the project.

298

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Pellestrina’s specialty lace making.

ARTS, CULTURE AND LACE-MAKING Pellestrina’s lace-making is its hidden art. Lace-makers specialize in bobbin lace making, and cultural associations have been keeping the tradition alive for generations. In 2016, the cultural association was evicted from their long-time office and they needed to find a new space for the lace-making school and lace collection. The new development will bring a community space for lace making and other artist spaces for both living and working in. As a destination for these activities, Pellestrina’s local economy and tourism may benefit from connecting to the larger region known for its crafts.

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

299

Bike rental and tourism map located in front of the ferry stop on Pellestrina.

SUPPORT FOR TOURISM There is some existing tourism on the island, including agrotourism, adequate transportation infrastructure and tourism designations. To increase support and recognition for the local economy, there is plenty of room to grow in these areas. Tourism growth is support by community members, according to the 2018 summer survey, with concerns about changing daily life and damages to the environment. The new development, further removed from the other villages, will bring people to celebrate Pellestrina’s history and culture and be able to support these activities through commercial, retail and hotel spaces.

300

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

N

SCALE COMPARISON LIDO In the south of Lido, is a neighborhood with a mix of residential, open space and retail/commercial uses.

This site comparison illustrates density and mix of uses that can be located on the platform side of the site.

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

301

Existing Uses + An existing community to build on - Multiple lots/ownership

Ferry Stop + Close to the site making it the gateway to the Island

Marsh land + Natural ecology - Creates a physical barrier to the platform

Concr + Sta - Not

Worker’s Campsite + Developable land

302

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Murazzi + Continous piece of infrastructure thet connects the Island + Used for recreation purpose - walking - Creates a visual and physical barrier between the Island and the beach/sea

SITE ANALYSIS

- Strong winds create strong waves

rete platform able for construction/blank slate natural, cannot be planted

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

303

THE NEW GRID The grid system is based on the size and the location of caissons during the manufacturing process for MOSE. The resulting block allows the incorporation of housing and open space and mitigates the amount of concrete exposed on the platform. The West to East direction of the street grid mirrors the existing development pattern on the island. The building are oriented to maximize sun exposure, by either the front or back of the building facing South using the courtyard space, and to minimize wind exposure.

304

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

305

306

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

SITE PLAN FULL EXTENT This proposal designs a new village on the MOSE platform, returning the lagoon side to a more natural state that allows for agrotourism. The north side of the platform is now a pier and market and the south side is the commercial and retail pier.

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

N 307

2

15

16

14

1 13

11 12

10

7 3

4

308

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

5

6

SITE PLAN WITH LABELED USES LEGEND

1. New multi-modal street 2. Pedestrian and bike connection 3. Murazzi and beach entrance 4. Activated recreational beach 5. Promenade with restaurants and beach-related uses 6. Art museum 7. Community center 8. Reflection pool 9. MOSE museum 10. Church 11. Art and artisan school 12. Main street with ground-floor retail uses 13. Housing blocks 14. Open-air local market 15. Pier 16. Community garden 17. Walkable breakwater

8

9

17 0

50m

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

N 309

STRUCTURES The majority of the buildings will be new construction. Construction material leftover will be utilized to create breakwaters along the edges of the platform. The MOSE museum will be built within the existing synchrolift.

LEGEND New Buildings Existing Buildings

310

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

N 311

MOBILITY

LEGEND Bus Stop Vehicle Route Pedestrian Route Boat Route New Vaporetto Stop

312

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

TRANSIT AND WALKABILITY TO THE SITE PUBLIC TRANSIT An added road creates a network to provide an accessible bus route through the development which directly connects the island with our site. An additional vaporetto stop on the north side of the site is also envisioned.

INTERNAL PEDESTRIAN The development will be pedestrian focused, with both formal sidewalks and informal walkways through residential blocks.

INTERNAL ROADS There will vehicular roads within the site, but limited.

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

N 313

OPEN SPACE

314

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

N 315

COMPOSITE DIAGRAM

316

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

0

50m

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

N 317

PROGRAM Total Site

Main Category

Land Use Category

Residential

Residential Residential Commercial - Hotels and Office Space

Mixed-Use

Retail

Artist Space Civic

Main Street Retail + Restaurants Restaurants + beach-related retail Maker Space Local Market MOSE Museum

Art Museum

Art School Community Center

Church

318

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Total Area (sq. m)

Number of Units

25,736 8,468

4,097 681

700 2,554

4,097

2,043 2,179 344

196 168

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

319

BLOCK TYPOLOGY

Courtyard & Parking

RESIDENTIAL TYPES

Housing = 27 artist homes

MA

KE

RS

PA

CE

AR TIS

TH OU

SIN

G

Marker Space = 681 sq. m.

ING

1. Marker Space and Artist Housing

NG

GA US RD ING HO EN S US ING

HO

US

Growing area

Housing = 21 units

WI

HO

Housing = 28 units

US

ING

G SIN

HO U

GR

OW

ING

GA

RD

EN

S

HO

GR O

Courtyard & Parking

HO

US

ING

HO

US

HO

US

2. Community Garden Housing

320

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

ING

3. Housing I

ING

Commercial = 1,482 sq. m

AR TIS

TH OU

SIN

G

Commercial = 4,950 sq. m

Courtyard & Parking

Parking

MA KE R

SP

AC

E

Retail = 1,375 sq. m

CO

MM

RE

Retail = 742 sq. m

ER

HO

HOHousing = 24 units US ING

Housing= 18 units

CIA

US

LS

ING

PA

CE

CO

MM

ER

CIA

LS

PA

CE

TA

RE

4. Mixed-Use Type 1

5. Mixed-Use Type 2

IL

TA

IL

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

321

1. MAKERSPACE AND ARTIST HOUSING

MA

KE

RS

PA

CE

AR

TIS

TH

OU

SIN

G

Total: Maker Space = 681 sq. m Housing = 27 units

322

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

323

2. COMMUNITY GARDEN HOUSING

324

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

ING US

HO

GR

OW

ING

GA

RD

EN

S

HO

US

ING

Total: Housing = 63 units

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

325

3. HOUSING I Total: Housing = 106 units

HO

US

HO

US

326

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

ING

ING

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

327

4. MIXED-USE TYPE I Total: Retail = 5,500 sq. m Commercial = 19,800 sq. m Housing = 72 units

CO

MM

RE

ER

TA

328

HO

IL

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

CIA

US

LS

PA

CE

ING

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

329

5. MIXED-USE TYPE II Total: Retail = 2,968 sq. m Commercial = 5,936 sq. m Housing = 96 units

HO

US

CO

MM

RE

ER

TA

330

IL

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

CIA

LS

PA

CE

ING

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

331

01

332

Murazzi Entrance

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

02

Main Street

03

PERSPECTIVES Local Market

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

333

MURAZZI ENTRANCE

334

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

335

MAIN STREET

336

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

337

LOCAL MARKET

338

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

Design Recommendation: Murazzi 2.0

339

Conclusion + Path Forward

342

Conclusion + Path Forward

04 CONCLUSION + PATH FORWARD

This site provides an opportunity to reimagine a new use for a large, otherwise unused industrial parcel.

The MOSE platform was purpose-built in the early 2000s for the construction of Venice’s floodgate system. The site is unique, but it has many parallels to other piers and oceanside developments in the developed world, which have seen their industrial uses diminished. Peculiar to MOSE is its recent age, and that it was built for a single purpose and time frame, although with minimal thought given to the longer-term use of the platform.

Given the size of the parcel, 170,000 square meters, or the size of two dozen soccer fields, and its mostlysquare shape, it is a site that is well-positioned for a redevelopment that can dovetail with the needs and desires of the surrounding community. However, it was constructed on a former marine environment.

Current plans show it being restored to a natural environment, although the cost and scope of this project have not yet been determined.

Our group analyzed the site and came up with three

conceptual designs, ranging from a small fishing village to a larger urban settlement. Our designs, in a sense, mirror the breadth of the settlements on Pellestrina and the other barrier islands between the Adriatic Sea and the Venetian Lagoon, from the small fishing villages on Pellestrina to the denser development in Lido and Chioggia.

We also kept in mind the reason for the structure's existence: the MOSE flood protection system. While Acqua Alta is most visibly present in Venice, our plans were keenly aware of how higher water will affect the MOSE platform site and the surrounding area in Pellestrina. This includes constructing resilient infrastructure, building structures that can accommodate changes in climate in both the long and short terms, and building infrastructure that enhances Pellestrina’s history, culture and economy.

The future of the MOSE platform in Pellestrina is in flux. It is yet unclear whether the platform will be

Conclusion + Path Forward

343

further developed or demolished.

Our report began with the “Future of Fishing”: a partial removal, where the resulting structure will form a miniature lagoon adjacent to the MOSE project, and one which will become a new, Adriaticfacing, fishing village, complete with supporting structures but without significant permanent population.

The next more intensive use, “Resilience in Reuse,” will keep some of the MOSE uses on the site, but build new structures for various temporary uses, from large events to an emergency evacuation shelter. Other permanent structures on the platform include a welcome center and accommodations for tourists, though the platform still retains significant open space.

Finally, the “Murazzi 2.0” will reimagine the platform as a new village, building a relationship between the Adriatic and the island and developing the local economy, using the Murazzi to connect the Adriatic side of the island to the Lagoon rather than to separate it.

There is significant uncertainty based on the potential for changes in the environment due to climate change and how it may affect this site in particular, and the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea in general. This site is a direct response to these changes: if not for the MOSE project, the site would never have come into existence. While MOSE—when finished—will be a permanent fixture of the region, this platform may or may not be. We hope that our ideas provide alternative ways of thinking of industrial infrastructure after it is no longer used for its original purpose.

Future work on this project will depend on the overarching policies adopted. If it is decided that the site must be dismantled, it will be important

344

Conclusion + Path Forward

to ensure that it is done in an environmentally sensitive manner and that the current development adjacent is not adversely impacted or incorporated into any future uses. This will require significant engineering work to research the exact site substrate and determine how a new beach will form along the lock and breakwater.

If the site is kept, a longer range vision should be created: what will be developed, and to what degree. Seemingly just as likely, if the site is kept in a state of limbo, it could still be put to use in the short term. Our plans begin to address these options, and we hope that they can help planners and policymakers in the Veneto region plan for the future of this site.

We believe that this range of designs provides a wide range of potential options for the future of the MOSE site and the island of Pellestrina.

This site is at an aquatic crossroads and provides the potential to link sea and lagoon, beach and Murazzi, and past, present and future.

Conclusion + Path Forward

345

References

05 REFERENCES Associazione Italiana Gestori Aeroporti, 2019.

Statistiche Dicembre 2018. http://assaeroporti.com/ statistiche_201812/

Comune de Venezia, 2010. Stradario e Popolazione. http://www2.comune.venezia.it/statistica/Territorio/ webgis/stra_pop/medium.htm

Bay of Fundy. “Bay of Fundy Tides: The Highest Tides in the World!,” 2010. https://www.bayoffundy.com/ about/highest-tides/#spring-tide.

Comune de Venezia, 2018. Movimento demografico. https://www.comune.venezia.it/it/content/ movimento-demografico

Guerzoni, Stefano, and Davide Tagliapietra. 2006.

Atlante Della Laguna: Venezia Tra Terra e Mare.

Marsilio Editori.

Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici. “Piano Nazionale Di Adattamento Ai Cambiamenti Climatici (PNACC),” 2017. https:// www.minambiente.it/sites/default/files/archivio_ immagini/adattamenti_climatici/documento_ pnacc_luglio_2017.pdf.

Cerantola, A., 2017. The dark side of tourism: Venice flooded by visitors. Euronews. https://www. euronews.com/2017/08/09/the-dark-side-oftourism-venice-flooded-by-visitors.

Cipriani, Laura. 2017. “Isole Di Possibilita: Venezia e La Citta Laguna.” Universita Iuav di Venezia: Aracne editrice. www.gioacchinoonoratieditore.it.

Città di Venezia. “La Marea,” n.d. https://www. comune.venezia.it/it/content/la-marea.

Città di Venezia. “Riferimenti Altimetrici,” n.d. https://www.comune.venezia.it/it/content/ riferimenti-altimetrici.

Comune Di Venezia, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), and Istituto di Scienze Marine CNR - ISMAR. “PREVISIONI Delle Altezze Di Marea per Il Bacino San Marco e Delle Velocità Di Corrente per Il Canal Porto Di Lido - Laguna Di Venezia Valori Astronomici,” 2018. http://93.62.201.235/maree/ DOCUMENTI/Previsioni_delle_altezze_di_marea_ astronomica_2018.pdf.

Francesco Cardia, and Alessandro Lovatelli. n.d.

“Aquaculture operations in floating HDPE cages: a field handbook.” Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Accessed April 17, 2019. http://www.fao.org/3/a-i4508e.pdf.

Franceschini, Rene A. G., J. Pallone, and Matthew Robayna. “Statistical and Spatial Analysis of Flood Risk in the Venice Lagoon.” In MIT Summer Workshop, 2017.

Franco, Leopoldo, and Giuseppe Tomasicchio.

“Hydraulic and Mathematical Modelling of Historical and Modern Seawalls for the Defence of Venice Lagoon.” Venice, Italy: American Society of Civil Engineers, 1992. https://ascelibrary.org/doi/

pdf/10.1061/9780872629332.144.

Gabbi, Paolo, Massimo Accorsi, Francesca Borgo, Giuseppe Cherubini, and Pierpaolo Penzo. 2014.

“Piano Pesca Della Provincia di Venezia 2014-2019” Gabbi, Paolo, Massimo Accorsi, Francesca Borgo, Giuseppe Cherubini, and Pierpaolo Penzo. 2016.

“Caccia e Pesca: Linee guida per l’esercizio della pesca professionale di vongole con sistema manuali in laguna di venezia.” Venezia Mestre. http://cacciapesca.cittametropolitana.ve.it/sites/default/files/ Pesca-2016-2822.pdf.

Gruppo 25 aprile, 2019. Piattaforma civica (e apartitica) per Venezia e la sua laguna. https:// gruppo25aprile.org/ "History." Avventure Bellissime. https://www.toursitaly.com/discover-your-italy/venice-travel-guide/ history.

Matticchio, Bruno, Luca Carniello, Devis Canesso, Elena Ziggiotto, Marco Cordella. 2017. Recenti Variazioni Della Propagazione Della Marea In Laguna Di Venezia: Effetti Indotti Dalle Opere Fisse Alle Bocche Di Porto.

Marzo, Mauro. Fortified Places in the Venetian Lagoon. Parma: FAEdizioni, 2012.

OECD, 2010. OECD Territorial Reviews: Venice, Italy 2010. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/ content/publication/9789264083523-en "Open Data Dell'Atlante." Open Data Dell'Atlante | Atlante Della Laguna Di Venezia. http://www. silvenezia.it/?q=node/135

Port of Venice, 2017. Passengers. https://www.port. venice.it/en/passengers.html Port of Venice, 2018. “Port Of Venice – Throughput Statistics: January - December 2018 (Final).” https://www.port.venice.it/files/page/ portofvenice12-2018_0.pdf Rosetto, Luca. 2000. “The Management of Fishery in the Lagoon of Venice.” IIFET 2000 Proceedings.

Silvestri, Silvia, Michele Pellizzato, and Vasco Boatto.

“Fishing Across the Centuries: What Prospects for the Venice Lagoon?” SSRN Electronic Journal, 2006. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.936931.

Sistema Statistico Regionale, 2017. Movimento turistico nel Veneto per comune. Comuni del Veneto ad alta presenza turistica Provenienza: italiani. http://statistica. regione.veneto.it/jsp/turismo_comune. jsp?anno=2017&provenienza=1&x1=2&B1= View+in+Html+.

Trincardi, F., A. Barbanti, M. Bastianini, A. Benetazzo, L. Cavaleri, J. Chiggiato, A. Papa, A. Pomaro, M. Sclavo, L. Tosi, and G. Umgiesser. 2016. The 1966 flooding of Venice: What time taught us for the future. Oceanography 29(4):178–186, https://doi. org/10.5670/oceanog.2016.87.

Vianello, Rita. 2004. Pescatori di Pellestrina: La cultura della pesca nell’isola veneziana. Cierre Edicione. Regione Del Veneto Guinta Regionale.

Venezia Mestra, 2019. https://www.veneziamestre. it/en/

WTTC, “City Travel & Tourism Impact 2017: Venice.”

World Travel & Tourism Council. https://www.wttc. org/-/media/files/reports/economic-impact-research/ cities-2017/venice2017.pdf Zaccariotto, Francesca. 2014. “Piano per la Gestione delle Risorse Alieutiche delle Lagune della

Appendix: Summer Workshop

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Appendix: Summer Workshop

APPENDIX: 2019 SUMMER WORKSHOP TEAM MEMBERS: GIULIA FUOCHI, ALEXANDER BOCCON-GIBOD, MARY HANNAH SMITH, EMILY LEVENSON, LUDOVICA POLO, GIULIA GILIBERTO, FABRIZIO ABATE, ANDREA CIBIN, GIULIA PORCELLI

In June 2019, MIT and IUAV students used a two week summer workshop to collect feedback on the three original design ideas and to develop a fourth concept.

The workshop was the latest in a series of summer camps hosted by MIT's MISTI Italy program and Università Iuav di Venezia (IUAV).

The students' challenge was to interview Pellestrina residents about how they would like to see the platform developed, and whether they had a preference for any of the three concepts developed by the InfraUrbanism workshop. Under the guidance of Mary Anne Ocampo, the nine students developed interview materials, spoke with residents, and turned their findings into a new platform design.

The new design prioritizes entertainment for Pellestrina's residents and tourists amenities without constructing new infrastructure or permanent housing. The design relies on green spaces and shade structures to mitigate heat and center the wide expanses of concrete. It connects the platform to the ferry via an elevated platform, and preserves the Murazzi to strengthen the area's connection to the rest of the island.

The summer workshop team on-site at the MOSE platform.

Appendix: Summer Workshop

355

356

Appendix: Summer Workshop

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

INTERVIEW PROCESS

The original InfraUrbanism practicum ideas were conceived without the benefit of input from Pellestrina residents. Once the designs were completed, the team was curious about how each idea would be perceived by the islanders, as well as what other needs or amenities might make sense to include on the site.

The summer workshop team prepared a set of loose interview questions, a brief survey (left) and a diagram depicting the basic attributes of the three InfraUrbanism design concepts (below). Since the team consisted of 6 Italians and 3 Americans, they decided to divide the island into three sections in order to cover the most ground. Each team made sure to interview certain stakeholders who would be impacted by any development on the platform. The groups canvassed the island over the course of one day, and interviewed a total of 20 groups.

Elizabeth Haney

Appendix: Summer Workshop

357

INTERVIEW RESULTS The interview results were transcribed, coded, and analyzed. Many thought that the platform should be demolished because they assumed that was the course of action already decided by the local government. Those who wanted to keep it thought that it would be most beneficial as a site for tourist amenities like bathrooms and showers for the beach, but also as a site for local entertainment.

Most residents did not want to build additional housing or other major infrastructure on the site.

Spinea Mira Padova

Chioggia

The people we interviewed came from a variety of locations, and included six groups of tourists. 63% of groups interviewed did not want to increase tourism on the island, with 30% wanting an increase, and 7% stating another response or did not say.

Pellestrina Sottomarina

Place of Origin

Demographics Gender

53%

=

47%

34 people inteviewed 20 groups

Age

20

358

30

40

Appendix: Summer Workshop

50

60

70

80

90

What could improve Pellestrina?

14

12 10

8

6

4

2

0 bike paths

activities for young people

public toilets

Climate change concern?

harbor

demolish the platform

worried about Acqua Alta

maintenance of the public spaces

Design preference?

37%

0%

better public transportation

47% 16%

Future of Fishing

Resilience in Reuse

Murazzi 2.0

Appendix: Summer Workshop

359

Santa Maria del Mare Kiosk Agriturismo Ferry / Bus Stop Camp San Pietro in Volta Church Gelateria Library Beach

Pellestrina Bus Gelateria Muretti

360

Appendix: Summer Workshop

INTERVIEW FINDINGS: SANTA MARIA DEL MARE

-Many people would like the platform to be demolished and restored to a beach.

-One of the biggest problems of the island is the lack of public transportation.

-Residents approve of the existing type of tourists who visit the island: those who appreciate Pellestrina’s unique characteristics (wildness, natural beaches, tranquility, slow pace of life...)

Appendix: Summer Workshop

361

SSanta Maria del Mare Kioskk Agriturismo Ferry / Bus Stop Camp San Pietro in Volta Church Gelateria Library Beach

Pellestrina Bus Gelateria Muretti

362

Appendix: Summer Workshop

INTERVIEW FINDINGS: SAN PIETRO IN VOLTA

-Lack of services and infrastructure both for residents and tourists.

-Lack of services and facilities for bikes.

-The existing level of tourism is good, but interviewees do not want tourism on the scale of Lido and historic Venice.

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SSanta Maria del Mare Kioskk Agriturismo Ferry / Bus Stop Camp San Pietro in Volta Church Gelateria Library Beach

Pellestrina Paese Bus Gelateria Muretti

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INTERVIEW FINDINGS: SAN PIETRO IN VOLTA

-There is a lack of public toilets.

-There are no facilities or activities for young people, and most of them are moving away.

-Pellestrina needs bike-paths because the majority of tourism is related with this sport.

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DESIGN CONSIDERATION: INTERVIEW FEEDBACK After hearing the opinions of Pellestrina locals and tourists, the workshop team had to figure out how to translate that into a new design idea. The main desires expressed during the interview were: boat storage, slow tourism, bike storage, preserve the Murazzi, generate activities for young people, and maintenance or increase in natural areas. These ideas were developed into design concepts as captured in the graphic below.

Public Areas, No Housing

Slow Tourism

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DESIGN CONSIDERATION: PRIMARY AXES When planning the new design, the team focused on two axes that intersect at the MOSE platform. The first is the Murazzi path, which has already been the developed. The second axis is the connection between the lagoon and sea sides of the island. The team decided to emphasize this axes by developing a new pathway that traces the line of the breakwater and directly connects the platform to the ferry terminal. This proposed pathway improves access to the site, and provides a new way for both residents and tourists to experience Pellestrina by linking the lagoon and the sea in a way that has not occurred since the construction of the barrier wall.

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COMPOSITE DIAGRAM

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SITE PLAN

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SECTIONS

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PHASED APPROACH Rather than redevelop the platform in one phase, the team felt that a phased approach might be more realistic. The initial phase would focus on building the elevated walkway and buildings around the the area closest to mobility links to the rest of the island. Subsequent phases would add open space and solar panel canopies throughout the platform, construct a harbor, and focus on activating the space with a market, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

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ELEVATED WALKWAY The proposed walkway would connect the ferry terminal to the new boardwalk on the platform. The walkway would be elevated over the lagoon and would bypass the existing automobile road. This would provide cyclists and pedestrians with a safe way to access the site and the Murazzi without having to share the route with cars or buses.

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PERSPECTIVE: LOW VISUAL IMPACT FROM REST OF ISLAND

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PERSPECTIVE: SAILBOAT MARINA AND SOLAR PANELCOVERED FISH MARKET

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PERSPECTIVE: WATERFRONT WALKWAY ON EXISTING JETTY AND “TRABOCCHI” (FISHING HUTS)

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PERSPECTIVE: EXISTING TENTS RE-PURPOSED AS MARKET OR TEMPORARY EVENT SPACE

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InfraUrbanism

MISTI ITALY

Envisioning New Alternatives for Old Infrastructure in Venice, Italy

In 2019, a team of graduate students from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Department of Urban Studies and Planning collaborated with the Consorzio Venezia Nuova and the Università Iuav di Venezia to study the Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico (MOSE) floodgate infrastructure, lagoon islands, and the increasing threat of climate change. This report describes the team's urban design proposals for a residual MOSE staging and land reclamation site within the Malamocco Inlet on Pellestrina Island. Three conceptual design approaches are tested to evaluate how industrial sites and infrastructure can be reimagined for future alternatives that embrace the unique culture, economy, and ecology of the Venice Lagoon.

MISTI ITALY

InfraUrbanism

Envisioning New Alternatives for Old Infrastructure in Venice, Italy