Bologna is redefining urban mobility through its city-wide ‘Città 30’ policy, which limits speeds to 30 km/h on 70% of municipal roads. Introduced in January 2024, the initiative aims to make streets safer, promote walking and cycling, and improve public space.
Results were immediate: within two weeks, road accidents fell by 21% and pedestrian involvement in collisions dropped by 27%. One year on, the city reported zero pedestrian fatalities, and increasing driver compliance reflects a cultural shift towards more respectful, people-focused street use.
Beyond speed limits, Bologna is redesigning streets through traffic calming measures, pedestrian zones, and school streets, prioritising vulnerable users such as children, older people and those with disabilities. These changes support the city’s broader accessibility plan, which includes removing architectural barriers and improving public infrastructure. Key investments include pavement improvements and two new tram lines to better connect underserved communities.
The Bologna Verde programme complements these efforts by integrating green spaces into urban areas, especially where public amenities are lacking. Through District Labs – local co-design workshops – residents collaborate with city officials to shape neighbourhood improvements, such as transforming car parks into public squares or piloting new pedestrian zones.
Inclusive mobility is also extended to night-time travel. The Nottambula Bus offers safe, late-night transport linking suburbs with the city centre. Trained helpers available to support passengers, particularly vulnerable groups. Bologna’s strategy blends physical infrastructure with softer interventions, including public awareness campaigns and behavioural initiatives.
While public response to Città 30 has been mostly positive – especially among families and safety advocates – some economic actors, including taxi drivers and couriers, have opposed the changes. A legal challenge led by the taxi lobby is currently under appeal, although the policy was upheld by a regional court.
To strengthen dialogue and build trust, the city launched a network of Città 30 Ambassadors, local volunteers who engage with communities and share information about the policy. Bologna’s efforts earned it the 2024 European Mobility Week Award and leadership of a new European taskforce on low-speed zones. The taskforce helps other cities navigate legal, cultural and communication challenges while promoting evidence-based policymaking.
Looking ahead, Bologna aims to continue leading by example, balancing bold action with community engagement, and showing that safer, greener cities are both achievable and beneficial for all.
Author: Claus Köllinger
Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.
