Successful transport decision-making - Osmose

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Timeline
STRATEGIC
TRANSPORT
PLAN / POLICY
Decision-making process
In 1994, a group of cyclists formed the Maribor Cycling Network (MCN)
to put pressure on the city administration to improve provision for bikes.
Officials realised that they lacked expertise in this area, so they
commissioned wide-ranging research from independent experts.
Council committees were set up to examine the research
recommendations and make amendments. In some cases, a forum was
set up in which professionals could make their comments. The resulting
documents were adopted by the City Council with little discussion.
However, despite the agreements, not much action was taken due to
lack of funds and political will. The MCN kept up pressure through a
series of campaign activities, and more measures were put in place in
2002.
Engagement
The development of the cycling network faced a degree of apathy from
politicians and the public, who did not really understand the need for
sustainable transport. However, many different bodies were involved in
its creation, including:
The City Council, which approved the plans;
The City Mayor;
Consultation bodies, including the Transportation Committee
Administration departments: Planning Institute; Communal Agency;
Traffic Office;
Professional organisations, which carried out the research: Faculty
of Civil Engineering; Road Traffic Institute; and
The Maribor Cycling Network, the non-governmental organisation
behind the plan.
Media coverage of a demonstration staged by Maribor Cycle
Network.
Tools and techniques
The project was instigated and kept alive by a series of campaign
activities organised by MCN. These included: riding over the Old Bridge
to demonstrate the problems faced by cyclists; highlighting the lack of
parking restrictions on cars; and clearing snow from cycle paths to show
they were not being maintained.
The protests gained widespread media coverage, which was crucial to
building up support among the public. The MCN issued press releases,
and learnt how best to talk to reporters.
Problems/
Issues
Policy/Strategy
Development
Policy
Assessment
Final Policy/
Strategy
Implementation
Plan
2002 2001
2000
1999
1998
1994
Four cycle enthusiasts form the Maribor
Cycling Network call attention to the
problems of cycling in Maribor. The
organisation goes on to stage a number
of actions which raise the profile of
cycling and sustainable transport
measures. The organisation also
contributes directly to the policy debate,
making recommendations to the
council.
The Communal Agency of the City of
Maribor orders the development of
directives for the transportation policy of
the city.
A conference workshop brings together
representatives of the Maribor Cycling
Network with foreign and domestic
transport professionals.
Maribor Cycling Network submit a
transportation plan to the city council.
A research project on transport policy
for Maribor is undertaken. Politicians
and professionals are chosen to
participate in forums. The general public
are invited to comment via the internet.
The long term transportation strategy
for Maribor is accepted and confirmed
by the city council.
Maribor Cycling Network stage a further
protest, to call attention to the failure to
implement the measures outlined in the
strategy.
Cyclists and pedestrians cross the bridge separated from motor
vehicles.
E-city, the official Maribor city website, was used to keep professionals
and the public informed of the progress of the project. All the relevant
planning documents were available online.
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