The City of Parma commits to EU Cycling Declaration implementation at the CIVITAS Forum
Image by Image: Comune di Parma
Gianluca Borghi, Parma Deputy Mayor for Environmental Sustainability, Energy and Mobility, presented a Letter of Commitment to implement the European Declaration on Cycling to the European Commission during the closing plenary of the CIVITAS Forum on 3 October 2024. The document outlines Parma's plans to set the wheels in motion for other cities to follow suit in implementing the European Declaration on Cycling.
“As cities across Europe work to achieve climate neutrality and improve quality of life, it is imperative that cycling remains a priority in EU sustainable mobility strategies. The CIVITAS Initiative has a vital role in ensuring that cities are equipped with the resources, knowledge, and network to implement the European Declaration on Cycling successfully. I call on the CIVITAS Initiative to keep promoting the principles of the declaration and to continue supporting cities in creating safe, connected, and inclusive cycling networks, enabling the full potential of cycling to be realized for healthier and more vibrant communities.” says Gianluca Borghi, Parma Deputy Mayor for Environmental Sustainability, Energy and Mobility.
The Parma Letter of Commitment reflects key messages from the CIVITAS Politicians Exchange Forum (PEF) held on 1 October ahead of the CIVITAS Forum. Over 15 elected representatives from European cities met with Eddy Liégeois, Acting Director for Investment, Innovative & Sustainable Transport at DG MOVE, and cycling sector representatives. They discussed challenges and solutions for implementing the European Declaration on Cycling, highlighting the need for political leadership, strategic planning, investment in cycling infrastructure, education, and partnerships. The session also stressed multimodal integration and e-bike adoption to enhance accessibility and reduce car dependency.
“The CIVITAS Forum 2024 has been a great opportunity to unite European cities in their common goals of achieving sustainable, inclusive, and smart mobility! The City of Parma has made great efforts, together with CIVITAS, to showcase the best practices in sustainable urban mobility and innovation. We appreciate their commitment to take concrete actions in implementing the European Declaration on Cycling and encourage CIVITAS to further promote its principles and successful implementation.” highlights Eddy Liégeois, Acting Director for Investment, Innovative & Sustainable Transport, Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport, European Commission.
