Green Rays, Milan

The Green Rays project is not just a network of routes, but a testament to a strong vision. It envisions a metropolis as a vibrant, permeable system, necessitating dynamic flows within itself. This vision rejects the notion of relegating natural spaces to mere accessories, instead, it embraces them as integral parts of master plans and future planning. This commitment to integrating nature into urban development is a beacon of hope for a more sustainable and livable city.

The project comprises eight Green Rays, ranging from 6.2 to 12.9 km. Rays 1 and 1bis run towards the Bicocca district and along the Martesana; Ray 2 from the east towards Parco Forlanini; Ray 3 towards Milano Santa Giulia (a recently built residential neighbourhood in the south-east); Ray 4 from the south towards Chiaravalle Abbey; Ray 5 along the Navigli (on the two main Navigli: the Grande and Pavese); Ray 6 in the west towards Parco delle Cave; Rays 7 and 7bis of the Fiera towards Trenno Park and Bosco in Città; Ray 8 towards Parco Nord.

The Green Rays master plan proposes an innovative strategy for Milan’s open space system: the densely built-up part of the city has already taken on a different form, designed to accommodate green areas and public squares. The work continues with implementing a pedestrian and bicycle paths network to integrate existing and new open spaces. Starting from the Spanish walls, the eight green rays radiating from the city centre will extend throughout the urban area and culminate in a 72 km long so-called “Urban Green Belt” on the outskirts of Milan, connecting all of them.