What Happened?
Stockholm has implemented a new urban transport strategy that supports development of public transportation, cycling and walking amenities, rather than catering to the needs of automotive transport.
Goal
Stockholm’s Urban Mobility Strategy was launched in 2013 in response to forecasts predicting the Swedish capital would be home to 25 percent more inhabitants by 2030. The jump in population would require the local government to invest in housing and transit resources that enable dense living and mobility.
The city would not be able to physically support an increased demand in personal transportation capabilities. Rather, officials had to develop a strategy for allowing people to live and work in the same area without relying on individual cars through more interconnected districts and a robust urban environment.
Therefore, the city developed a Walkable City strategy that aims to make better use of available space and resources to ensure residents will not need to travel far to satisfy their day-to-day needs. Instead, residents will be able to reach all destinations by foot, bicycle or public transportation. The city is investing in walkable transportation resources and a more connected roads system, as well as nurturing economic growth in all districts so neighborhoods host key businesses.
The city is redeveloping its transit network to move away from major traffic flows. Because traffic is a hazard for pedestrians, businesses and motorists, Stockholm has made it a priority to support alternative transit options and sustainable accessibility for all residents. This aligns with another city goal of being fossil-fuel free by 2050.
Crowdfunded Bike Lane
Another example of a city responding to increased demand for non-vehicle transit development can be seen in Denver. The city has a growing number of public-private partnerships emerging that support continued transportation projects designed to connect residents to key destinations and businesses throughout alternate transit.
Denver already hosts a series of protected bicycle lanes throughout its major roadways. A new protected bike lane in the downtown area, however, maybe completed using funds generated by the Downtown Denver Partnership business organization, Philanthropy reported.
The mile-long protected bike lane is estimated to cost $150,000 to design and implement. Rather than waiting for the city to gather funding for the bike lane, the business organization has collected $120,000 in donations from:
- Private businesses
- The Downtown Denver Business Improvement District
- The Gates Family Foundation
In addition, the partnership launched a crowdfunding campaign online to accept donations from residents and other individuals interested in investing in the project. The group has already surpassed $20,000 from the online campaign, nearly reaching their goal of $35,000, Next City reported.
The Downtown Denver Partnership is not working independently from the city. Rather, Denver officials are collaborating with business and community groups identify and align goals that benefit the city and local economy simultaneously. By taking on the bike lane project, the business organization is helping accelerate Denver’s transit plan to build a stronger network of non-vehicular transit systems, Next City reported.
Bike to Work
Gov1 has reported on several strategies that place greater emphasis on pedestrian needs and sustainable transit.