Urban mobility is the key to prosperity and liveability. Yet, our ability to move around by public or private transport must be weighed against its cost to society as a whole. Mobility is often seen to be in conflict with the environment worldwide. Can we sustain our freedom of movement and, at the same time, maintain the health of our cities? This paper examines the question from the standpoint of transportation experience in other world cities in terms of public transport, car ownership, suburban living and daily trip making. This is placed in context with recent transportation and community studies undertaken in the Greater Vancouver metropolitan area in British Columbia, Canada. All world cities are striving for livability and Vancouver, a city blessed with physical beauty, also demands the best in terms of transport mobility.This paper looks at international transportation trends that shape city life. Cities are still attractive places because they keep reinventing themselves. History shows cities that work best in terms of transport, safety and cleanliness also generate the most wealth. Indications from the world's future (2015) 14 mega cities suggest that populations will stabilize, travel growth can be sustained, and mobility can be maintained. The transport policies required to maintain this mobility relate primarily to traffic management and road pricing. The paper concludes by suggesting how cities can meet the demands of mobility and, at the same time, preserve their viability for future generations. These consist of a range of measures including electronic traffic management, traffic demand management, integrating bus and rail rapid transit, and involving the private sector in the operation of arterial corridors. (A)
Abstract