WIR 02/2019 [EN]

8 The Next Level of Mobility
The ropeway – a new transport level
In cities, the ropeway can meet transport challenges
on an entirely new level. It possesses
a whole series of features and benefits that
harmonize very well with other means of transport.
Ropeways can expand a city’s transport
infrastructure as well as linking up the network
with major hubs or hotspots. This makes them
an ideal complement to the existing transport
system. The ropeway accesses a completely
new level above the existing infrastructure,
which can continue to be used for city life. It
can cross obstacles such as rivers or hills with
ease. Ropeway passengers enjoy a silent trip
as they glide above the city, leaving the street
noise and the hustle and bustle behind them.
A new perspective opens up as they take their
seats and enjoy the ride in comfort.
Space-saving and barrier-free
Vacant areas for transport are rare in urban
areas. Here again, the ropeway has the
answer: The small structural footprint for towers
and stations means that ropeways do not
require much space. In addition, they offer
barrier-free access for everyone, enabling
wheelchairs, baby strollers and bicycles to be
carried with ease. Level entry to the cabins in
the stations means problem-free boarding for
all.
Another advantage: Short planning and construction
times make the ropeway an interesting
option for urban planners and investors.
Ropeway projects can therefore be implemented
extremely quickly in comparison with other
infrastructure projects. This modern mode of
transport has a successful track record in
mountain areas that goes back decades, and