Sustainable Cities Mobility Challenge

The two rivers that cross Brașov are mostly hidden under concrete slabs. Reclaiming the public space along the Timiș river is a top priority for a city aiming for climate neutrality by 2035. Therefore, the city has identified segments along the 12-kiometre stretch where quick interventions with immediate impact are possible. This includes the revitalisation of a neglected street by uncovering part of the buried Timiș stream and transforming it into a blue-green corridor. This participatory pilot will repurpose Enupărului Street as a shaded walking and cycling route that connects homes, schools, and shops. Using nature-based solutions, green infrastructure, and community events, the project aims to create a cooler, more attractive and inclusive urban space while laying the foundation for a full-scale green corridor along the river.  

George Scripcaru, Mayor of Brașov: “The revitalization of the Timiș blue-green corridor on Enupărului Street is a first step in a broader effort to reconnect neighbourhoods with nature, create community spaces, and expand investments in clean transport and pedestrian infrastructure. This initiative reflects our ambition to become a climate-neutral and truly green city — not just through the nature that surrounds us, but through a community-centred approach to urban transformation.”

Spanning 14 municipalities, the Viseu Dão Lafões Intermunicipal Community has established an award-winning, on-demand transport service known as “Ir e Vir” (or “Comings and Goings” in English). It offers residents in rural areas an affordable and flexible transport option, allowing them to book taxi rides in advance at the cost of a standard bus ticket. As part of the region’s wider Sustainable Urban Mobility Strategy, the Community is now taking a bold step to integrate green infrastructure by creating 14 “green hubs” at key transit stops. These hubs will feature portable trees, seating areas, and biodiversity elements, transforming utilitarian spaces into cooler environments with much-needed shade. The goal? Reduce car dependency, increase urban-rural connectivity, and promote social interaction in an environment that blends mobility with nature. 

Fernando Ruas, President of the Intermunicipal Community of Viseu Dão Lafões: “It is much more than a mobility solution. It is about connecting people, bringing communities closer together, tackling isolation, and clearly reinforcing territorial cohesion. Being selected for the Sustainable Cities Mobility Challenge is a strong recognition of Viseu Dão Lafões Intermunicipal Community ongoing efforts to promote inclusive and sustainable mobility. We are honoured to be part of this European network of cities driving forward climate action on the ground.”

The Hague is piloting a community-led approach to car sharing as this ‘EU Mission’ city aims for climate neutrality by 2030. When more people share cars, more space opens on the streets. But what happens to these parking spots? That’s for the residents to decide! The city intends to reward those who share cars in groups or cooperatives with the ability to transform their neighborhoods – by adding greenery, bike racks, seating areas or a mix of these to spaces once claimed by cars. This bottom-up approach that empowers residents to make more sustainable choices will serve as a blueprint for embedding system change into urban planning. 

Arjen Kapteijns, Deputy Mayor for Mobility of the municipality of The Hague: “We believe that this project and car sharing, in particular, will make a significant contribution to the mobility transition and improve the liveability of our city, in close collaboration with initiating residents and other involved parties. The support of the Sustainable Cities Mobility Challenge is important to achieve these goals and for sharing the acquired knowledge and lessons learned from other cities.

Üsküdar is committed to transforming school environments and surrounding streets into areas that prioritise children’s safety and independent mobility. Building on two successful pilots, the municipality will expand its “Safe School Streets” programme to more school zones. Street design plays a crucial role in promoting healthy, active mobility; therefore, the project will also incorporate nature-based solutions such as planters, trees, parklets, shrubs, and pocket gardens. These green interventions not only improve air quality and urban cooling but also enhance biodiversity and overall quality of life, making streets more inviting for walking and cycling. The approach aims to create a more inclusive and secure community, ensuring that the needs of children are central to urban development and planning. 

Sinem Dedetaş, Mayor of Üsküdar: “It is possible to build safe, green streets where children can move freely and independently. Our Safe School Streets initiative was the first step, proving that even small interventions can lead to meaningful change. By reimagining school surroundings with nature-based and child-centered design, we are not only investing in our children’s well-being but also in the sustainability of our city.”