The City of Cape Town has called for public input on its proposed Walking and Cycling Strategy, which seeks to reposition walking and cycling as safe, accessible, sustainable and primary modes of transport in Cape Town.

This long-term strategy was developed to support investment in pedestrian and cycling improvements that will promote access to opportunities and integration of transport in Cape Town.

The City says continuing with a car-centric approach is unsustainable, seeing that Cape Town’s population is expected to reach 5,8 million by 2040.

The Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility Rob Quintas says historically, the City’s transportation system has prioritised private vehicle use, which has resulted in severe congestion, pollution, and increased traffic fatalities.

Quintas says the problem is that Cape Town’s infrastructure is not designed for pedestrians or cyclists.

‘The draft Walking and Cycling Strategy therefore outlines Cape Town’s commitment to creating a more inclusive, people-focused transport system and to reposition walking and cycling as primary, safe, and sustainable modes of transport. Through strategic planning, the City can use this strategy to reshape the current landscape, and address existing gaps in infrastructure, integrate active mobility into urban design, and enhance collaboration across government bodies to achieve long-term, sustainable transport solutions.’

Creating safe networks through investment in infrastructure around key precincts will be key to promoting walking and cycling.

‘Creating highly pedestrianised precincts and cycle highways will offer complete, safe walking and cycling routes that have the potential to reduce traffic.’

The Priority Areas:

1. Infrastructure Development:

• Network Expansion: The City aims to establish comprehensive and interconnected walking and cycling networks, focusing on direct, well-maintained routes.
• Reallocation of Space: Prioritizing road space for walking and cycling through dedicated lanes and shared paths while reducing space for private vehicles.
• Universal Access: Ensuring infrastructure supports people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.

2. Safety and Accessibility:

• Road Safety Improvements: Addressing high pedestrian and cyclist fatality rates through improved road designs, traffic calming measures, and safer intersections.
• Personal Security: Enhancing lighting, visibility, and surveillance along walking and cycling routes to mitigate crime concerns.
• Crossings and Bridges: Aligning facilities with pedestrian desire lines and ensuring safe crossings over barriers like highways.

3. Integration with Public Transport:

• Connecting cycling and walking routes to public transport hubs to facilitate seamless multi-modal trips.
• Providing adequate and secure bicycle parking at key transit points.

4. Community Participation:

• Engaging residents and stakeholders to ensure infrastructure meets local needs and builds public support for walking and cycling initiatives.

5. Incrementalism and Targeted Investment:

• Implementing phased projects that focus on strategic areas with high potential impacts, such as underserved neighbourhoods and major activity hubs.

Key Locations for Focus

• Dense Urban Areas: Concentrated efforts on central business districts and areas with high pedestrian and cyclist volumes.
• Transport Interchanges: Enhancements around key public transport nodes to promote walking and cycling as part of multi-modal journeys.
• Peripheral Areas: Addressing inequities by investing in walking and cycling infrastructure in marginalized communities far from economic opportunities.

The public has until 14 December 2024 to submit comments for consideration. The draft Walking and Cycling Strategy is available HERE.

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