The Polish town of Puck has transformed its public transportation system into an attractive mode for getting around, putting a focus on efficiency and reliability.
Polish town boosts public transport to reduce traffic congestion and pollution
- 11 August 2020
“Such transport nodes must be created so public transport is of a better quality – more organised, functional, and environmentally friendly. In this way, we limit the number of cars on the streets and we increase the use of public transport and other modes of shared transportation.”
To decrease traffic congestion while promoting sustainable modes of transportation, Puck, in Pomerania, Poland, decided to revamp its public transport system. With the support of EU funding, the city constructed new infrastructure, including roads, bicycle paths, bus stops, and a car park.
The result is an integrated transportation system where citizens can drive to the train station, park their car, take the train into the centre of town, and then rent a bike for the final part of the journey. Not only has this new system, which extends well into the suburbs, reduced the amount of traffic in the city, it has also contributed to a reduction in harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
Significant infrastructure
The project oversaw the construction of a large car park near the main railway station – the main transport hub and link to the regional capital, Gdańsk. During the summer, when tourists flock to this seaside town, most arrive via the Puck train station. Thus, the rail station was the natural choice to serve as the hub for the city’s new transport network.
The car park has 101 park-and-ride designated spots and several ‘kiss and go’ drop-off points, nine disabled parking places, 23 places for cyclists, 12 taxi ranks, and five bus ports. To ensure the safety of all users, the entire facility is monitored by 16 security cameras. Furthermore, to increase aesthetics and comfort, the project planted 68 trees and 824 bushes and installed 11 benches around the station.
In addition to the car park, access roads leading to and from the station were built and renovated. Dedicated pedestrian and cycling paths were laid out along these roads. A waiting bay for buses and a bus shelter for passengers were added.
It is estimated that the new infrastructure will benefit over 300 000 people every year.
Part of a regional system
The project is just one of 27 similar projects being carried out across the Pomorskie region. The aim is to create a regional transport system that links public transport between towns, cities, and rural areas. In doing so, the region will significantly increase the availability of transport for residents, regardless of where they live.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Construction of the Puck Transport Hub along with access routes” is EUR 2 408 085, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 1 499 233 through the “Pomorskie Voivodeship” Regional Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period.