"We want the new stadium to be built, but we want it to be done the right way," said Alessio Mantellassi, Mayor of Empoli, announcing proposed changes to the project presented by Empoli FC.

Proposed changes preceded by extensive dialogue with the community

Since the project’s presentation in July 2024, concerns about its impact on urban planning, society, and the environment have led to the formation of citizens' committees. The municipality also conducted an extensive public consultation process. These meetings, conversations with business leaders, the sports community, and numerous opinions received resulted in proposed changes that the administration is now presenting in a new phase of negotiations. The decision was approved by officials on January 15.

The mayor assured that thorough analyses of all financing possibilities for the project had been conducted over the previous months, taking into account discussions during the StadioInsieme program. A summary document was developed, which Empoli FC must now review and adapt to its proposal. According to city officials, the proposed changes will make the project more integrated with the city and address many of the concerns raised.

© Empoli FC

Key issues addressed

Considering the overall economic feasibility of the project, the proposed amendments include improvements to road infrastructure, development of sports facilities, increased parking capacity, and better protection of surrounding neighborhoods. The administration expressed confidence that an agreement satisfying all parties could be reached, particularly since the city engaged with 250 residents during 90 days of meetings. It was emphasized that efforts will continue with full commitment for the benefit of the entire Empoli community.

Some of the points detailed by the administration were raised by the Serravalle Committee, which focused on issues related to the sports hall and road infrastructure. Similarly, the committee Yes to the stadium, but not in this form recently concluded meetings with officials, reiterating their concerns.

Goal: Economic and financial balance of the project

After thanking residents for their participation in the public consultation process, Mayor Alessio Mantellassi explained that the main suggestions from participants had been collected, combined with administrative assessments, and thoroughly analyzed by four municipal directors. They identified areas requiring improvement. In preparation for the preliminary Conference of Services, for which a date has yet to be set, the administration has acted to be ready to begin the process. In the summary document, Mantellassi highlighted that Empoli FC’s proposal will need to be verified for compliance with current regulations.

The resolution deemed it appropriate for the Stadio Castellani area to include spaces for offices, an auditorium, neighborhood facilities, and a medium-sized commercial establishment. All these elements aim to achieve the project's economic and financial balance and enhance the area’s social, employment, and economic value. However, the administration supports the public consultation's recommendation to reduce the number of planned neighborhood facilities from 23.

© Empoli FC

The city aims to return the area to residents

The administration rejected the possibility of building a tourist and recreational facility in the auxiliary area. Instead, it prefers to dedicate this land to public spaces for social activities and/or public green spaces. However, it also expressed openness to considering alternative locations for investments such as hotels or other facilities that would ensure the project’s economic stability.

Mantellassi emphasized that transforming this area into a public space accessible to Empoli residents is an important step. Plans include preserving the current weekly market area around the stadium while reorganizing stall placements to benefit traders, residents, and visitors. An additional meeting with market representatives has been scheduled to finalize details. Meanwhile, in the area between the railway tracks and the parking lot on Via della Maratona, the municipality demands the establishment of a sports zone, particularly a street basketball court. This request emerged during the public consultation process.

© Empoli FC

What challenges and responsibilities lie ahead for Empoli FC?

Additionally, the municipality intends to require Empoli FC to cover the financial costs of five investments, primarily involving road infrastructure (constructing a roundabout, renovating a bridge and parking lot), as well as modernizing the PalAramini sports hall. The club will also be obligated to pay annual rent and all taxes, including local ones, related to the stadium’s commercial and office spaces.

The municipality also demands that, until the project’s completion, Empoli FC collaborates on scheduling meetings with authorities to monitor progress, minimize disruptions, and establish a working group to address issues related to the market. Roberta Scardigli, Director of Public Works and Property, has been appointed as the project manager.