“A general subscription” in project at Épinal
In the shadow of the giant and model of Strasbourg in the Grand Est, other medium-sized cities have implemented initiatives to defend the practice of cycling in the city. That of Épinal, in particular, is clearly a success.
According to a recent study, the rate of use of “self-service” bicycles in Épinal is impressive. Out of the 34,000 inhabitants, 14,000 use the device, which consists of 150 bicycles for 40 stations in the agglomeration. The average travel rate is 14 minutes. The success of this operation has even won over the experts on the question and has led Épinal to strengthen the offer. In the coming months, the city plans to introduce 250 new bikes and around ten additional stations.
The principle of the self-service bicycle system is acclaimed, especially by the student population. Those under 25 years old are entitled to half an hour of free use per day. The rest of the tariff conditions are in unison, reflecting the “defense of soft mobility” advocated by Mayor Patrick Nardin. The objective set for September 2024 is to establish a “general subscription for all forms of mobility,” including buses and trains.
The project is ambitious, but the city councilor believes that they are already behind schedule and need to speed up. However, he emphasizes that the mistake would be to rule out the car and oppose other modes of transport. The goal is to create a backbone of conviviality in Épinal that respects all forms of transportation. The commercial offer in the city is still fragile, despite efforts to reduce vacancy periods for commercial premises from 15% to 5%.
The success of the self-service bicycle system in Épinal is a testament to the growing demand for alternative modes of transportation and the need for cities to adapt to changing mobility trends. With the implementation of a general subscription for all forms of mobility, Épinal aims to further promote sustainable transportation options and create a more inclusive and accessible city for its residents. #Lorraine #Urban #mobility #Nancy #times #bicycles
How has the self-service bicycle system in Épinal impacted the city’s transportation landscape and what factors contributed to its remarkable success?
In the city of Épinal, a self-service bicycle system has been implemented, and it has proven to be a remarkable success. A recent study revealed that out of the 34,000 inhabitants, 14,000 individuals utilize this system, which consists of 150 bicycles stationed at 40 locations throughout the city. On average, users travel for 14 minutes per trip. This accomplishment has garnered recognition from experts in the field and has prompted Épinal to enhance its offerings. The city has plans to introduce 250 new bicycles and approximately ten additional stations in the near future.
The self-service bicycle system in Épinal has been particularly popular among the student population. Those under the age of 25 are entitled to 30 minutes of free use per day. The pricing structure for other users is designed to support the promotion of sustainable and eco-friendly mobility, as advocated by Mayor Patrick Nardin. The city’s objective for September 2024 is to establish a comprehensive subscription service encompassing all forms of transportation, including buses and trains.
While the project is ambitious, city councilors recognize the urgency to expedite its implementation as they believe there is already a delay. However, they emphasize that it is crucial not to disregard cars or other modes of transportation. The goal is to foster a harmonious coexistence of various transportation options in Épinal, creating a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Despite efforts to reduce vacancy rates for commercial premises from 15% to 5%, the city still faces challenges in revitalizing its commercial offerings.
The success of the self-service bicycle system in Épinal reflects the increasing demand for alternative modes of transportation and the necessity for cities to adapt to evolving mobility trends. Through the implementation of a comprehensive subscription service, Épinal aims to further promote sustainable transportation options and establish a more accessible and inclusive environment for its residents.
