Zagreb - CROATIA

Facts and figures about Zagreb
Since early 1990s Zagreb is the capital city of the Republic of Croatia. It has rapidly grown in the past years and has now around 780.000 inhabitants. Zagreb is a relatively large city situated on the fastest route that connects Central with Southeastern Europe.

Cycling represents only 1% of modal share and is mainly popular among university students. There is potential for cycling though, there are over 55.000 full-time students attending the 11 city universities. However parking conditions for cyclists in the campus and around the city are relatively poor. The city has developed a Bicycle lane network plan and this plan of bicycle lanes is now implemented step by step.

Zagreb is a "STARTER" city but is highly committed to increase its cycling level thanks to PRESTO project.

Local activities in Zagreb
The city of Zagreb's motto within PRESTO project is “Getting Ready as a Cycling City”. Local activities in Zagreb include following four actions:

1. Bicycle lanes network. Since Zagreb has great potential for cycling (numerous student population, difficulties in mobility posed by motorized traffic, long history of cycling), main effort is aimed towards creation of a comprehensive cycling system, consisting of separate lanes, surfaces where space is shared with other modes and storage/parking possibilities.

2. Promotion of urban cycling: bicycle race “Tour de Jarun/ Maksimir”. Using the platform of a popular bicycle race (8.000-10.000 visitors) to promote cycling as energy efficient and convenient daily transport means will raise public awareness on benefits of cycling and improved health through physical exercise.

3. Cycling promotion among students. Zagreb aims at increasing the use of the bicycle among students as a core target group to create critical mass of cyclists in the city. Promotional campaigns will address students to encourage cycling and lobby for better cycle parking at universities and student residences. Questionnaires will be distributed among students besides promotional materials.

4. Demonstration of electric and other bicycles. To raise public awareness about benefits of electric bicycles and other tailored bicycles, especially among people that do not cycle yet, test track of electric and other bicycles will be organized in cooperation with local retailers. The results expected are an increase in the number and use of private bicycles and a higher awareness of the benefits of cycling (energy efficiency, environment and health).