Bern’s Bold Move: Rethinking Bus Travel for a City Center Revival
The city of Bern, Switzerland, is embarking on a significant overhaul of its car and coach travel management, aiming to alleviate congestion and enhance the quality of life in its historic city center. A new concept, currently undergoing public consultation, proposes a shift towards paid, reserved parking outside the central area, coupled with a phased reduction of parking within the city itself.
From Free Parking to a Reservation System
Currently, Bern offers free parking to coaches and tour buses at 19 locations, totaling 46 spaces. This is set to change dramatically. The proposed system introduces a daily fee of 50 Swiss Francs for parking, requiring advance online booking. This booking includes a reserved parking space and a 15-minute allowance for passenger drop-off and pick-up at a designated location. Spontaneous parking will be limited to the Neufeld coach terminal.
This move reflects a growing trend in European cities to prioritize pedestrian zones and public spaces. Cities like Florence and Amsterdam have already implemented similar restrictions and fees to manage tourist bus traffic, often redirecting buses to park-and-ride facilities outside the city center.
Phased Implementation: A Two-Stage Approach
The changes will roll out in two stages. The first phase, beginning in the first half of 2027, will see a reduction in parking availability in key areas. Six parking spaces on Schützenmatte will be reduced to a single drop-off point, five spaces at Aargauerstalden near the Bear Park will become drop-off points, and those at Muristalden will be eliminated entirely. This will leave approximately 9 drop-off and 26 parking spaces, supplemented by 6 spaces at the Neufeld terminal.
The second stage hinges on the completion of a larger, modernized coach terminal at Neufeld. This terminal will feature six coach parking spaces and eight bays for long-distance buses. The city plans to incentivize employ of the new terminal through lower parking tariffs.
Financial Implications and Revenue Projections
The city anticipates generating around 210,000 Swiss Francs annually from the new parking fees during the first phase of implementation. This revenue is intended to contribute to the sustainable management of transport infrastructure.
The Rise of Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and Integrated Transport
Bern’s initiative aligns with the broader global shift towards Mobility as a Service (MaaS). MaaS integrates various transport options – public transport, ride-sharing, bike-sharing, and, in this case, coach travel – into a single, user-friendly platform. By streamlining coach travel and integrating it with other modes of transport, Bern aims to create a more seamless and efficient mobility experience for visitors and residents alike.
Did you know? The concept of charging for coach parking is not new. Many European cities have been experimenting with similar schemes for years, driven by concerns about congestion, air quality, and the preservation of historic city centers.
FAQ
Q: When will these changes capture effect?
A: The first phase of implementation is planned for the first half of 2027.
Q: Where will coaches be able to park in the future?
A: Primarily at the Neufeld coach terminal, with limited drop-off points available in the city center for short stops.
Q: How much will parking cost?
A: A daily fee of 50 Swiss Francs will be required, payable online in advance.
Q: Will there still be any free coach parking in Bern?
A: Only at the Neufeld terminal, and only without a prior reservation.
Pro Tip: Travelers planning coach trips to Bern should book parking in advance to secure a space and avoid potential delays.
What are your thoughts on Bern’s new coach travel concept? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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