Urban Nodes Alliance Position Paper: Empowering Cities and Regions to Build the TEN-T
The Urban Nodes Alliance, a coalition of prominent European networks representing cities, regions, and territorial groupings, has unveiled a landmark publication aimed at fortifying the governance and funding mechanisms crucial to the success of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T).
Insights and inspiration developed under the SCALE-UP project.
Entitled “Urban Nodes: Empowering Cities and Regions to Build the TEN-T”, this comprehensive document represents the culmination of extensive collaboration and deliberation among key stakeholders. It addresses fundamental aspects of governance and funding essential for effectively implementing the ambitious TEN-T regulation, which has recently undergone significant updates.
The Urban Nodes Alliance benefits from insights from the SCALE-UP project and its sister project MOVE 21, and their recent developments and ongoing measures.
Additionally, it highlights the pivotal role of Urban Nodes in fostering connectivity, resilience, and sustainability across the continent. With the identification of 431 Urban Nodes, a substantial increase from the previous count of 88, the document emphasizes the necessity of empowering local authorities in shaping transportation policies and projects on a European scale.
Key recommendations outlined in the publication include the establishment of Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) at each Urban Node by 2027, focusing on sustainability, safety, and accessibility. Additionally, efforts will be directed towards the development of multimodal passenger hubs by 2030 and the implementation of at least one multimodal freight terminal per Urban Node by 2040, addressing critical last-mile challenges and enhancing freight transportation networks.
Crucially, the publication emphasises the importance of effective governance structures to ensure coordinated efforts aligned with corridor objectives. It advocates for allocating adequate financial resources, including continued support from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) or similar funding mechanisms, to meet the ambitious goals of the TEN-T regulation.
Furthermore, it presents the significance of capacity building, research, and innovation in optimising the efficiency and effectiveness of Urban Nodes. It positions the Urban Nodes Alliance as a proactive partner for EU institutions, corridors, and member states in leveraging these insights to drive tangible progress in transportation development and integration of across governance structures and modes of transport for both people and goods.
The release of this definitive publication marks a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of the TEN-T network, signaling a renewed commitment to fostering sustainable and interconnected transportation systems across Europe.
Find the full position paper available below.
Author: Eftychia Koliou, Smart Transportation Alliance (STA)
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