Why were citizens engaged?
On November 20, 2024, the University of Cyprus hosted an interactive face-to-face workshop in Nicosia, Cyprus, bringing citizens to the forefront of the mobility hub conversation. The workshop aimed to uncover public perceptions, explore real-world mobility needs, and co-create potential use cases through interactive, scenario-based exercises. Participants engaged in creative and critical discussions, voicing their concerns, expectations, and ideas about the role of mobility hubs in shaping urban mobility. By assessing different scenarios, citizens had the opportunity to pave the way for mobility hubs by providing valuable insights into how mobility hubs could influence travel behavior and well-being, ensuring that future mobility solutions are not just innovative but also citizen-centric.
Utopia or Reality? Citizens weigh in!
When it comes to daily travel, citizens in Cyprus are not just looking for small fixes; they want a revolution. During the interactive participatory workshop, they painted a bold vision for mobility hubs: no more chaotic congestion, no more scattered bus stops, and no more guesswork when switching between transport modes. Instead, they imagined vibrant, multimodal spaces where e-scooters, buses, bikes, and shared cars flow seamlessly. With key locations pinpointed as potential hubs, the goal is clear – less car dependency, more sustainable choices, and a smoother ride for everyone.
Do mobility hubs work for all? Absolutely!
Why should mobility hubs be limited to urban centers? Citizens argued that suburban and rural areas need them just as much – if not more. Picture this: students ditching their long solo drives for carpooling and public transport, travelers skipping airport parking hassles thanks to well-placed suburban hubs, and rural workers accessing smarter, on-demand transport instead of being stranded. A unified mobility card covering all transportation modes would make this shift effortless, while discounts for low-income users would ensure accessibility for all. The message was loud and clear: mobility hubs should be the backbone of an efficient, connected Cyprus.
More Than a Transit Point? A Space That Works for People!
A mobility hub is not just about getting from A to B – it is about the experience. Citizens demand more than just functional spaces; they want mobility hubs that feel safe, comfortable, and built for real-life needs. Imagine on a hot sunny day stepping into a modern, air-conditioned lounge where you can charge your phone, grab a coffee, and plan your journey with a tap on an interactive screen. Green spaces, night lighting, and even student-run information kiosks could transform these mobility hubs into local landmarks. And while some debated whether an all-in-one mobility app or separate service apps would work best, everyone agreed on one thing: the future of travel in Cyprus should be smart, seamless, and designed for the people who use it.
Stay tuned for more…
