The VLITS project concerns a new transport system for fast, safe and comfortable travel between Helmond, Eindhoven, Nuenen and Mierlo, in the Dutch province of Noord-Brabant. VLITS stands for "Vernieuwend Licht Individueel Transport Systeem" ("Innovative Light Individual Transport System"). This "bicycle highway" of approximately 13 kilometres should satisfy the needs of travellers with regard to layout and additional services. The underlying objective is to persuade current car users to switch to using a bicycle and the VLITS route for homework trips. Whether the project can be successful depends on more than just the technical improvements of the path. The vehicles used on the route and the acceptance of the concept by the users also play a role. These aspects were therefore jointly investigated in an Internet user requirements survey, establishing the preferences of potential users regarding infrastructure, vehicle and service concepts on the VLITS route and the conditions under which users will actually use the route. The survey also resulted in data with which an estimation of the potential number of users was made: over 3800 users on the busiest section, 600 of them are new users attracted by the faster connection. Response (about 1200 people) was high, and most respondents have a (very) positive attitude towards the concept. Services directly related to bicycle use are appreciated more than services that require a (somewhat longer) break in the trip. The services should not raise the costs to a level where the construction of this particular bicycle path or similar routes may be discarded. Many respondents indicate that the most important characteristics of a bicycle highway are directness, safety, and good maintenance. The VLITS route can offer this and more. (A)
Abstract