Bici 2045: a new strategy for cycling mobility in Ticino

Post on: 13.07.2025

This week the Canton of Ticino officially presented the "Bike 2045" strategy, an ambitious project that aims to radically transform the way people move around the territory. The plan envisages significantly upgrading cycling infrastructure within the next twenty years, thus encouraging the use of bicycles as the main means of daily travel, with a clear objective: to reduce traffic and pollution.

Why is Ticino focusing on sustainable mobility?

The constant increase in car traffic, especially in cities such as Lugano, Bellinzona and Mendrisio, has made clear the need for more sustainable alternative solutions. "Bici 2045" aims to offer a practical and healthy alternative, encouraging citizens to leave their cars at home in favor of two wheels. The strategy, approved by the Grand Council, is part of the broader framework of Swiss environmental policies, which envisage a clear reduction in emissions by 2050.

The main measures envisaged by the "Bici 2045" project

• Strengthening the cycle network: creation of new safe cycle paths that are well connected with strategic points such as railway stations, schools and urban centres.
• Development of "velostations": covered and safe bicycle parking spaces, equipped with charging points for e-bikes.
• Economic incentives: financial support for the purchase of electric and traditional bicycles.
• Information and awareness campaigns: initiatives to promote cycling culture, highlighting environmental, economic and health benefits.

The expected benefits of the strategy

According to the promoters of the project, "Bici 2045" will bring numerous benefits, not only from an environmental point of view. The reduction in motorized traffic will result in less road congestion, better air quality and less noise, significantly increasing the quality of life in urban areas. In addition, regular use of bicycles will have positive effects on public health, helping to reduce problems such as obesity and cardiovascular disease.

The reactions of the Ticino community

The "Bike 2045" strategy has attracted great interest and positive reactions among both citizens and local environmental associations. Numerous groups have stressed the importance of this step forward, but asked for further details on timing and funding. The tourism sector also looks favorably on this initiative, seeing new opportunities for sustainable and ecological tourism.

Next steps and short-term goals

In the coming months, the Canton of Ticino will proceed with the detailed definition of priority interventions. The first concrete realizations, such as new cycle paths and stations for electric bicycles, are planned for as early as 2026. The intermediate goal is to increase the number of daily cyclists by 30% by 2030.

With "Bici 2045" Ticino confirms its commitment to a greener and more sustainable future, demonstrating that cycling is not only good for health, but also for the environment and the entire community.