Murcia’s winning entry focused on implementing a whole range of creative measures as part of its ‘Action Plan for the bicycle 2017-2019’. These include: 20km of cycle lanes across the city under the “Murcia Cycle lane project”; the launch of a public bike sharing system called MUyBICI, with 60 stations providing 600 bikes; the launch of the “Moon bike” initiative where cycling tours are organised on full moon evenings; and the launch of “Cycling workshops in parks” to improve citizens’ cycling skills and teach them how to cycle safely in Murcia.
At the same time. a maximum speed of 30Kkm/h in 100km of streets in the centre of Murcia has been implemented, electric vehicle charging stations have been installed. and 50 car park places have been created and reserved for electric vehicles only. These measures have been met positively by citizens with 8,500 users of the MUyBICIand and 82,200 moves per month.
Runner-up: Irun, Spain
In the heart of Irun. the Plaza de San Juan has undergone major renovation works, following a participatory process with citizens, to create a new greener, more citizen-friendly square. This includes a 2,500m2 public library and two levels of underground parking. The square is connected via a pedestrianised pathway into the old town. At the same time, the decision to make the whole of Irun a “Ciudad 30” has helped to improve habitability, safety and levels of pollution.
