15 million euros funding for cycling infrastructure: Wissing wants to make Germany a cycling country

The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) has launched a new funding round for innovative ideas and projects to further implement the National Cycling Plan 3.0 (NRVP 3.0). Approximately 15 million euros will be available for this purpose from 2023 to 2027. Sketches can be submitted digitally until April 28, 2023, according to the BMDV. Although the amount is modest compared to other road infrastructure funding, the minister hopes a few impulses can still be set.

"I want to make Germany a true cycling country. With the National Cycling Plan 3.0, we have a clear roadmap. We are already supporting states and municipalities with many funding programs for the new construction, conversion, and expansion of a safe and comprehensive cycling infrastructure. With the new funding round, we are now looking for innovative projects that further improve conditions for cyclists," explained Volker Wissing, Federal Minister for Digital and Transport.

The scope of previous funding already ranges from cargo bikes for the last mile to data platforms for planning cycle paths to researching bike-friendly intersections that make a noticeable difference, the minister was convinced. With the new call for funding, the focus is now on faster planning and implementation, more participation, and innovation. Wissing expects "attractive offers for more climate-friendly mobility."

Focus areas of the call for funding for non-investive model projects in cycling 2023 are projects:

• Bringing cycling qualities to the area – quickly & effectively: Continuous local, regional, and supra-regional cycling networks require integrated cycling planning that goes beyond municipal boundaries. We fund projects that make a noticeable change, e.g., in the areas of planning, recruitment of skilled workers, knowledge management, and participation. This includes projects that take new, innovative organizational paths and can accelerate the planning and implementation of measures. The aim is to develop concrete solutions for user-oriented implementation planning, enabling large, scalable, and cross-border projects in urban and rural areas, thereby significantly improving the cycling infrastructure.
• Promoting social participation in cycling mobility: So far, bicycle use varies unequally among population groups and depends on educational level and economic status. We want to change that. Therefore, we fund projects that encourage bicycle use across all social strata, milieus, and age groups, examine obstacles, and develop concrete solutions. Special target groups include those who have never or rarely cycled. Additionally, people and their living situations will be considered, especially those living in neighborhoods, (large) settlements, and regions without sufficient cycling infrastructure. Another central focus is on projects that create inclusive and barrier-free conditions for bicycle use.
• Through the development, testing, and dissemination of innovative ideas and concepts, contribute to promoting cycling in Germany. Projects will be funded that make cycling more attractive and safer through innovative bicycle technologies, services, infrastructure, or research results, thus contributing to the implementation of NRVP 3.0. This may include innovative data-based planning tools that provide the basis for demand-oriented infrastructure expansion. Also, the technical development of novel products, infrastructure solutions, or services, as well as processes, e.g., for sustainability in production, can be funded.