Creating a clean, accessible high-quality public transport corridor

Summary

Krakow’s efforts to improve the image of public transportation as safe, economically efficient and environmentally friendly have contributed to creating a clean high-mobility corridor in the city.

Implementing sustainable mobility

In order to maintain the 60 percent modal share of public transportation and counter the trend towards greater use of private cars, Krakow implemented measures to increase the quality, accessibility and attractiveness of the public transport system and improve safety, security and infrastructure, especially for those with reduced mobility.

On the city’s inner ring road, many of the on-street bus and tram stops were not safe or comfortable for passengers, especially older people and those with reduced mobility. These stops were reconstructed as combined bus and tram stops and new audio and visual information displays were installed, providing passengers with real-time travel information.

Progress

A project for the reconstruction of Lubicz and Rakowicka streets was approved, which included the reconstruction of the public transport stops. Two major bus and tram stops on these streets were converted into “model” stops.

The first new buses running on compressed natural gas (CNG) were tested on two lines, linking the demand-responsive public transport service with the city centre.

Technology for the audio and visual dissemination of information was installed in 24 trams.

A new urban traffic control system helped to improve traffic flow and speeds in the selected clean high mobility corridor.

Outcomes

All the buses operating in the corridor conform to high environmental standards, and the two newly constructed model tram stops have improved accessibility and safety. By adjusting the level of the street to the height of the tram platforms, boarding and alighting times were significantly reduced.