Promoting cycling and pedestrian mobility in cities necessitates collaboration among a diverse array of stakeholders, including city governments, transportation agencies, community groups, and businesses. We firmly believe that everyone bears responsibility and possesses the capability to effect the necessary changes to enhance our cities.
In the UAE, 1 in 14 children and adolescents, as well as 1 in 3 adults, suffers from obesity primarily due to physical inactivity. Additionally, two-thirds of students are transported to school by car, contributing to road congestion. We collaborate with schools to address the challenges of traffic congestion and obesity, and to promote an active lifestyle, encouraging walking and cycling to school. This initiative commences by closely collaborating with schools to identify their accessibility needs and goals. Subsequently, we conduct an assessment of the existing infrastructure and identify the essential actionable improvements required. Following this assessment, we proceed to the stages of implementation and monitoring.
The Managing Director of the C40 Cities organization has emphasized that investing in cycling and walking stands as the most crucial action mayors can take to address climate change and mitigate inequalities and poverty. We have established collaborations with international experts and organizations specializing in cycling and walking infrastructure. Through these partnerships, we aim to provide valuable consultancy services to governmental bodies on matters of strategy, policy, and design. We are also in the process of assembling pertinent curricula and tools to facilitate training workshops for both governmental and private-sector personnel focused on constructing people-oriented urban environments. Stay tuned for further details on upcoming training opportunities.
Clients, whether they are city governments or real estate developers, are increasingly emphasizing the enhancement of community livability and well-being. By integrating cycling and walking considerations in the early stages of master plans, we not only build resilience against climate change but also mitigate traffic congestion, enhance road safety, and improve transportation accessibility and affordability. Our cycling and walking urbanism advisory services are designed to assist transportation engineers, architectural and landscape consultants, as well as urban design and landscape projects. We also contribute to traffic impact studies and facilitate integration with public transport infrastructure. At present, we are in the process of assembling relevant training curricula and tools tailored to cycling and walking infrastructure. These resources will be utilized for conducting workshops intended for professionals within our region.
Real walkable communities are in high demand and short supply. Developers hold a significant capacity to foster greater prospects for active transportation, inspiring individuals to choose biking over driving, thus mitigating traffic congestion and air pollution, while simultaneously advocating for healthier lifestyles.
In case of issues in pedestrian safety, or vehicular congestion, we can work with facility managers to identify any gaps and improve walkability and biking facilities in the community. Not all necessary walking and cycling improvements are major or expensive. Sometimes the required improvement is as simple as opening a new gate, paving a desired line, lighting a walkway, or providing a bike rack.
Are you grappling with high vacancy rates on your streets, issues related to speeding, or a "high" demand for parking? Research has indicated that investing in cycling infrastructure can play a pivotal role in bolstering local businesses. Pedestrians and cyclists tend to be more inclined to pause and shop at small businesses compared to drivers. Furthermore, they are more likely to explore local attractions and participate in community events. By fostering a more bike-friendly environment, cities have the potential to stimulate the local economy. We provide advisory services aimed at identifying strategies to rejuvenate High Streets, harnessing the principles of cycling and walking urbanism.
