Bomba Day

VICENZA, Italy – Italian officials are contacting some Vicenza residents about “Bomba Day,” when Italian technicians will neutralize a WWII bomb.

On May 2, dozens of U.S. military members and their families will evacuate the area surrounding “Contra’ Mure Pallamaio,” as Italian bomb disposal squads undertake defusing operations on an aerial bomb discovered during construction.

That Sunday, by 8 a.m., residents and business owners within 450 meters of the bomb site must leave the area. Police will check any vehicles or people in the area. Anyone not complying with the evacuation order will incur the penalties.

Members of the U.S. Army Garrison Italy can shelter at Caserma Ederle during the day, using the areas of athletic track and Hoekstra Field.

The effort may take up to seven hours and people will not be allowed to return to their homes until the bomb is neutralized. Under Italian COVID-19 rules, the evacuation is justified on grounds of necessity.

Vicenza officials distributed information to all affected residents, in Italian and English. Staff from the USAG-Italy Housing Office also contacted residents by phone.

Italian officials are anticipating a Yellow zone designation for COVID-19 restrictions. If so, travel within the region on May 2 would be authorized.

The USO and the Exchange will be open on post.

Any affected residents who have utilities concerns afterward should call the Housing hotline 0444-71-5116.

Click here for information in English from the Comune di Vicenza.