A neighborhood in Jerusalem is putting walking first thanks to SUNRISE
The neighborhood of Baka, located in the south of Jerusalem, is experimenting with new participatory methods. Citizens are being involved in the co-creation of measures that will mitigate the most pressing urban mobility challenges.
Baka has a population of 13,000 inhabitants and is home to a diverse group of residents. The neighbourhood measures have been implemented within the scope of the SUNRISE project and organised by Baka’s Community Council, which plays a key role in the organisation of social services and cultural activities. The aim is to foster sustainable mobility together with the residents.
One of the key measures is the ‘Walk to School’ programme, which encourages students and pupils to walk to school. The intention is to create awareness about walkability in the neighbourhood and reduce the number of private vehicles used to bring students to school.
The measure intends to foster a shift towards a sustainable mode of transportation, while helping to decrease congestion and improve the air quality for all residents.
Students are learning about the benefits of walking to school and are giving ‘lectures’ on walkability to other classes and groups in the community. In this way, they are becoming the real ambassadors of the initiative and the drivers of change.
This video explains, in a nutshell, what SUNRISE is doing in Jerusalem to foster co-creation and improve the quality of life of its citizens.
Watch it here.
