New Bicycle Path Discussion in Fontes Pereira de Melo: Are Pedestrians and Cyclists Conflicting?

Street arrangements in Lisbon are going through active times again. The City Council (CML) and EMEL rolled up their sleeves to solve the congestion caused by the bus stops on Avenida Fontes Pereira de Melo, but the step taken has already sparked controversy.

The basis of the plan is to remove the 25-meter bicycle path next to the two bus stops and direct cyclists to the same area as pedestrians, behind the stops. Within the scope of the project, it is also planned to cut two trees. Although the aim seems to be to ease traffic flow and increase security, the reality on the ground and the reactions of the associations show that the task will not be that easy.

MUBi: "The Solution Will Make the Situation Worse"

The Urban Mobility Association by Bicycle (MUBi), whose opinion we received on the subject, does not argue that the current infrastructure is a flaw, but is concerned that the proposed prescription will make the patient worse.

According to the association, this regulation will bring pedestrians and cyclists face to face and escalate conflicts. The irony is that active modes of transportation are being squeezed so much while still leaving ample space for vehicles. It seems inevitable that pedestrians will not be able to walk comfortably in already narrow areas and cyclists will struggle with constant interruptions.

Highlights of the Plan:

Cancellation of the 25-meter bicycle path section at two bus stops.

Directing cyclists to sidewalks with high pedestrian density.

Two trees will be cut down within the scope of the work.

Replacing the historical and characteristic pavement texture with a smooth concrete surface.

Balance Between Traffic and Urban Design

Actually, this problem is not new. Previously, in the audit report prepared by the international consultancy firm Copenhagenize, attention was drawn to the incompatibilities at the intersections of bicycle paths with bus stops throughout Lisbon. However, the main problem here is that the current width of the street does not allow for the ideal solution (circuiting the bicycle path behind the stop).

Although the municipal administration aims to warn users and provide comfort with this step, the focus of criticism does not change. Residents and non-governmental organizations argue that such patchwork solutions, without sacrificing space reserved for cars, damage the urban fabric. Let's wait and see whether the reactions in the coming days will cause a step back or revision in this plan.

Source: Lisboa Para Pessoas (Mario Rui André)

Photos: Francisco Romão Pereira / LPP