We spoke with Marc Figuls, managing partner at Factual Consulting and main responsible for the Valencia pilot, about the current mobility situation in the Spanish city, as well as upcoming plans for the PHOEBE pilot in the first part of the series last week. The following two questions are focusing on the topics of micromobility in Valencia and the first project results that impact our Spanish pilot. In case you have missed our other written interviews, we suggest you to check the first part of this interview, as well as the conversations about West Midlands and Athens.
What role does micromobility play in Valencia? Which solutions are available and do citizens and tourists use them frequently?
Micromobility offers convenient and sustainable transportation options for both residents and tourists. One prominent micromobility solution in the city is Valenbisi, a bike-sharing system that was launched in 2010. Valenbisi is a joint initiative between the City Council of Valencia and the company JCDecaux. The system allows users to rent bicycles for short trips around the city, promoting cycling as a popular mode of transport. The rental scheme expanded over the years into an extensive network that enhances the convenience to rent bikes throughout the city.
In addition to bike sharing, there are also moped sharing services available in Valencia, such as Yego, Acciona, Cooltra. These services provide electric mopeds that can be rented for short-distance travel. However, it’s important to note that while citizens are allowed to drive their privately owned e-scooters, e-scooter sharing is not currently permitted in the city. The availability of these micromobility solutions reflects the city’s commitment to promoting sustainable and efficient transportation alternatives.
The presence of Valenbisi and moped sharing services demonstrates that both residents and tourists have access to a range of micromobility options in Valencia. Some residents rely on micromobility services as part of their daily commute or for running errands, while tourists often utilise these options for sightseeing and exploring the city. Overall, micromobility solutions play a significant role in Valencia, providing residents and tourists with convenient and sustainable transportation options.
What are the next steps for the Valencia pilot after the first nine months of the project?
After the initial nine months of the PHOEBE pilot in Valencia, there are several important steps to be taken in order to enhance the project’s effectiveness and ensure its success. These next steps include:
- Data Analysis and Evaluation:
Thoroughly analysing and evaluating the data collected from the LanePatrol technology is crucial. This analysis will focus on identifying patterns, trends, and areas that require improvement in terms of safety and quality of the cycle lane networks. By gaining insights into the behaviour of local residents, tourists, and different user groups, specific challenges can be addressed.
- Comparison with Historical Accident Data:
It is essential to compare the collected data with historical accident data to assess the impact of the pilot project on safety improvements. By comparing accident rates and severity before and after the pilot’s implementation, the effectiveness of interventions can be determined. Ultimately measuring progress towards the Vision Zero goal of reducing fatalities and serious injuries.
- Stakeholder Engagement:
Engaging with stakeholders, including local residents, tourists, cycling advocacy groups, and mobility planners, is crucial for the pilot project’s success. Gathering feedback, insights, and experiences from these stakeholders through surveys, focus groups, or public consultations is important. This engagement provides an opportunity to address concerns, collect additional data, and foster a sense of ownership and collaboration.
- Scaling and Expansion:
Based on positive outcomes and lessons learned from the pilot, there may be opportunities to scale and expand the implementation of the LanePatrol technology and CycleRAP methodology. This involves integrating the pilot findings into the city’s broader cycling infrastructure plans.
Valencia’s commitment to investing in active mobility infrastructure stems from its aspiration to become a smart and sustainable city.