Photo by: Duane Daws
The EcoMobility Festival that is currently under way in Sandton marks the start of a long-term shift to an “ecomobile” future.
Public transport, walking and cycling are set to become the transport modes of choice in future. Consulting firm Arup developed a transport master plan for Sandton that promotes a shift from private car to alternative modes of transport. The festival's transport arrangements reinforce a number of the plan's proposals. Accordingly, Arup agreed to collect traffic data during and after the festival to develop an understanding of the changes in travel patterns and choices made as a result of the festival arrangements.
The EcoMobility Festival, which limited private vehicle access, with managed access streets and park-and-ride facilities to link people with public transport and alternative transport into and out of Sandton, was a “potent demonstration” of how future cities could look in South Africa, said Arup transport planning associate director Madeleen Engelbrecht.
A seamless transport system where people could switch easily between rapid and passenger rail, Metrobus, the Rea Vaya bus rapid transit system, minibus taxis, cycling and walking was envisaged for Johannesburg.
“In South African cities, where sprawl and low-density settlements are the norm, cycling or walking are often an essential part of a daily commute. Thus, nonmotorised transport networks are essential as the last mile of an integrated transport system. The provision of nonmotorised transport is also being actively pursued to reduce emissions and promote healthy and more liveable communities,” Engelbrecht noted.
“In the context of climate change, improving the efficiency of urban public transport will have a major positive impact on cities, reducing their emissions and improving quality of life for residents.”