Zurich voters back bike lane expansion plan

The project was given the go-ahead by voters who backed a plan for “safe and consistent bike routes” in a referendum on Sunday.

Parking will be expanded at Zurich’s main train station, while new such facilities are earmarked for the Stadelhofen, Hardbrücke and Oerlikon train stations.

The project was welcomed by cycling groups, although the project finally supported was less generous than a 200-million-franc plan advanced in a popular initiative.

Voters ultimately accepted a less costly counter-proposal developed by city council, with investments to be made over 20 years.

The Green party, which actively campaigned for the extra facilities for cyclists, says the outcome is positive.

The party argued that by investing in such facilities Zurich can remain among the most liveable cities in the world by recognizing that cycling is a means of transport for the future in urban areas.

Compared to many other cities, Zurich would be considered a bike-friendly city.

But user groups have long criticized the lack of implementation of a cycling master plan as well as safety issues, conflicts with on-street parking of cars and a shortage of facilities for parking bicycles.