Bike-and-ride parking and other facilities

Summary

The measure aimed at improving cycling policy in Graz and increasing the modal share of bicycles, thus reducing fuel consumption and negative environmental impacts.

Implementing sustainable mobility

Although the modal share of cycling had increased in Graz since 1980, prior to the measure implementation the increase had slowed down. The city aimed to increase the share of cycling from the 14.2 percent level achieved in 1998.

The measure was designed to address a range of barriers identified as hindering the popularity of cycling in Graz, including:

• lack of pre-trip information for cyclists;
• lack of shelters and lockers at public transport stops; and
• lack of connection between bike routes to form a network.

Progress

• A bike policy audit was carried out in order to identify priorities and measures to be implemented within CIVITAS TRENDSETTER.
• A map showing bike routes, repair facilities and bike shops was produced in print format and for distribution via the city’s home page. The information brochure “20 reasons to go by bike” was also produced in 2005.
• All new public transport stops and many streets throughout the city were equipped with bike and ride facilities in the form of secure bike parking racks, with sheltered parking at terminals. There are now over 500 cycle racks available.
• Bottlenecks were eliminated by building new bike paths and underpasses at railway crossings, including the spectacular underpass under Keplerbrucke.
• Bike training for pupils aged 10 was extended and offered in all schools in Graz.

Outcomes

Although the objectives were reached, the modal share of cycling did not improve as much as expected.

One important innovation was the appointment of a bicycle policy coordinator in the city, who is able to focus exclusively on bicycle policy.