The Catalan Executive has approved a significant 240 million euro investment to develop Catalonia’s cycling infrastructure, aiming to add approximately 700 kilometres of new cycle paths and routes by 2030. This ambitious initiative, known as the Programme of Action for the Bicycle 2026-2030, seeks to create a continuous, safe, and functional network across the region.
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Sílvia Paneque, spokesperson for the Catalan Government, announced the Consell Executiu’s approval of the programme. She stated the plan includes over one hundred actions designed to promote and facilitate bicycle use. The primary goal is to enable most daily commutes by bicycle throughout Catalonia.
Major Investment in Cycle Paths
The bulk of the budget, over 220 million euros, will fund the construction of more than 260 kilometres of new cycle paths. These dedicated paths aim to improve safety and connectivity for everyday cyclists across various municipalities. This substantial investment underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable urban and interurban transport.
Expanding Cycle Tourism Routes
Additionally, the programme allocates over 7 million euros to develop more than 400 kilometres of cycle tourism routes. These routes will enhance Catalonia’s appeal as a cycling destination. Specific routes included in the plan are the Berguedà Cycling Axis, Congost-Ter Route, Diagonal Axis, Intercatalunya, Sió Route, and EuroVelo 8, a major European cycling path.
Secure Bike Parking at Stations
A key component of this strategy involves building “bicitancats”, which are secure enclosures for bicycle parking, located next to railway stations. The Generalitat recently launched a pilot bicitancat in Vilafranca del Penedès, Barcelona province. Currently, officials are constructing additional facilities in Sant Celoni, also in Barcelona province, and in Segur de Calafell and Reus in Tarragona province. These projects involve collaboration with local councils and station owners, ensuring integrated transport solutions.
This comprehensive programme represents a significant step towards fostering a more bicycle-friendly Catalonia. It aims to improve residents’ daily lives by offering safer, more accessible cycling options and boosting the region’s cycle tourism economy for years to come.
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Originally published by 20 Minutos Barcelona. Read original article.
