Public Transportation Security Action Plan

Summary

As safety and security are crucial factors in retaining and attracting public transport passengers, an integrated public transport security concept was developed in Krakow.

Implementing sustainable mobility

As part of the city’s efforts to promote the use of public transportation, a security audit was carried out as the basis for developing a safety action plan. This measure was implemented in conjunction with the introduction of clean high-mobility corridors and improving public transport infrastructure in the city centre, taking into consideration the needs of passengers with reduced mobility.

Progress

The security audit initially focused on tram stops on the first ring road, where passengers have to alight into the road. An analysis of accidents and interviews with passengers confirmed that more user-friendly bus and tram stops must be installed in the city.

The passenger survey highlighted factors that reduce comfort and feelings of safety:

• the difference in level between the pavement and the bus or tram is a particular problem for older passengers and those with reduced mobility;
• cars often drive too fast close to public transport stops;
• there are too many cars close to the public transport stops, making it difficult for passengers to get on and off the vehicles safely; and
• visibility at bus and tram stops is often poor.

Activities under this measure related mainly to the reconstruction of the junction between Lubicz and Pawia Streets and the installation of a safe bus and tram stop as a model for other locations in the city. The new combined bus and tram stops feature real-time information conveyed in both written and spoken form.

The safety action plan also covered changes to traffic control and access in the centre of Krakow.

Outcomes

Activities undertaken as part of this measure contributed to improving the image of Krakow’s public transport network as safe, economically efficient and environmentally friendly. Subjective feelings of safety improved, especially among vulnerable groups (youngsters, women and older passengers).