Approach

PRESTO aims to improve energy efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions and air pollutions by increasing the modal share of cycling in cities. PRESTO aims also at increasing traffic safety for cyclists through better infrastructure and training, and at improving public health by promoting physical activity.
How do we do that?

Set of tools for policy makers and city planners
PRESTO will prepare three Policy guidelines for urban decision makers all over Europe: 1) on cycling infrastructure (covering riding bicycle, standing bicycle and interchanges); 2) on promotion of urban cycling (covering benefits, ways and effects) and 3) on promotion of pedelecs (covering user groups, the market, opportunities) and several Fact sheets for infrastructure, promotion and pedelecs, giving concrete implementation advice for selected topics. Through modularised on-site training sessions and e-learning classes, interested stakeholders will be trained by selected experts and will gain knowledge on different cycling issues and policies.

Local activities in the cities
Within PRESTO, the five cities involved will develop infrastructure implementation plans covering lane networks and bicycle parking. The plans will be the basis for establishing a real cycling culture in the cities. Several promotional activities will take place in all PRESTO cities, such as bicycle festivals and events, bike to work campaigns, multigenerational cycling promotion, cycling promotion for students or a bicycle race. The measures will improve the image of cycling and show that cycling is fancy, healthy, and good for shape. Within the scope of PRESTO, pedelecs (electrically assisted pedal bicycles) will be demonstrated at several events in each partner city. Citizens will get the chance to test pedelecs and thus to see for themselves the advantages and the range of application of such electric bicycles.