Municipality of Velenje actively promotes planning and implementation of cycling policy in urban areas and hence supports any efforts that are contributing towards healthy and environmentally friendly mobility.

Few years ago, following the needs for sustainable urban transport (especially cycling), we have started looking for durable solutions and tools to improve urban cycling infrastructure and motivate local population to use bicycles for transportation.

Innovative technology solutions

Thus, on the 18th of September 2012, we have officially launched the automated Bicycle Rental/Bike Sharing System, named BICY. Similarly as other Public Bike Rental/Bike Sharing systems, BICY applies innovative technology solutions for rental services and offers a detailed system for tracking and control of rented bikes. Local inhabitants might use the system free of charge upon previous registration at the Tourist office of Šalek Valley. Municipality of Velenje financially supports the maintenance of the system, while each user takes responsibility regarding usage and potential damage of the rented bike.

Currently, there are 15 rental stations across different locations around the city with total of 74 available bikes and 3141 registered users, which is more than 10% of the total population. In less than 6 years, BICY system has registered 152.183 rentals.

Reduction of air pollution

Following the success of this initiative and aiming to reduce the use of automobiles for short trips inside the city, Municipality of Velenje strives to upgrade the BICY system with additional stations, conventional and electrical bicycles. Additionally, we want to integrate all innovative approaches for smart mobility to change the habits of our inhabitants and further contribute towards reduction of traffic congestion, noise and air pollution.

Pilot action

The EU supported CHESTNUT project should be a continuation of our intentions to increase the number of cyclists in the city and number of trips made by bicycle. With the pilot action (starting in June 2018), beside the upgrade of the BICY system with new stations, conventional and electric bicycles, we aim to achieve the following:

• improve conditions for movement within lightly trafficked or pedestrian areas
• promote use of public transport
• efficient use of urban space
• positive effects on human health and the environment
• strengthen local identity

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