Over thirty people took part in the first citizen panel dedicated to reform public transport in Kalisz-Ostrów Agglomeration in Poland.
Students, seniors, local self-government representatives, entrepreneurs and social activists met in Kalisz on November 21st to work on sustainable transport solutions for their region. Each of them had different transport needs and habits - from car drivers, bike users, bus and train passengers to pedestrians who request special architectural facilities. They worked together in mixed groups to build a futuristic vision of better transportation in Ostrów and Kalisz area.
Ewa Milewska, the head of Kalisz-Ostrów Agglomeration Association, said: The point is to create visions based on experience of various social groups. Social participation should appear on everyone stage of any project and all strategic activities. Involving residents is a first step. Their opinions will be translated into documents and plans, which, we hope, will better suit all society wishes.
During this first PE4Trans workshop, citizens were invited to think big and outside the box, not only about their own neighbourhood as it is today, but also about the future of the entire region. They talked about hopes and fears, shared dreams and fantasies and created technological ideas which now may seem unrealistic or bizarre. That methodology gives participants a chance to open their minds and take a step further beyond today's limitations. And it also may be a great tool for policy makers to draw a far-reaching strategies.
As Ewa Milewska added: We already know that public transport or cycling is the best solution, when it comes to reducing the traffic jams and CO2 emission or improving the quality of life in our city. It also seems to be the quickest way to commute in Kalisz and Ostrów! Hence so much investment in infrastructure of public transport, however there are still not enough inhabitants who decide to use it.
For the environment and health's sake it must be changed as soon as possible. That is why knowing people's deepest desires may help in promoting and creating pro-ecological transportation.
The result of the panel are six visions which will be further discussed both by experts and citizens. In the next step they will be asked to confront visions with their families and friends.
Similar panels will also be organised soon in all regions cooperating within PE4Trans project.
Graphic: freepik.com
