Masterplan Series: Reimagining Mobility in Mykolaiv
The UN4UkrainianCities Masterplan Series explores key strategies and approaches in urban planning for Ukrainian cities, making complex concepts accessible to a wider audience. In this issue, we delve into Mykolaiv's transportation future with Giuseppe Andrea Vallelonga, Director of Mobility Planning at Systematica, who shares insights on creating a resilient and people-centered mobility system.
Building a Flexible Transport Network for an Evolving City
When envisioning Mykolaiv's future mobility system, adaptability emerges as a core principle. "We want to implement a public transport system based on electric vehicles that is very flexible," explains Giuseppe Andrea Vallelonga. This approach acknowledges the uncertainty in demographic scenarios and the need to create systems that can evolve with the city's changing needs.
The masterplan outlines three fundamental goals to guide this transformation. First, redirecting heavy traffic through a new bridge and bypass of road systems will minimize impact on residential areas and improve connectivity of the Innovation District located in the heart of Mykolaiv. Second, promoting intermodality by enhancing railway connectivity and integrating it with park-and-ride facilities as well as mobility hubs that enhance soft mobility. And third, developing a flexible transport system that can adapt to the city's evolving needs while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Integrating Existing Infrastructure with Future Needs
The masterplan carefully considers how to leverage Mykolaiv's existing assets while introducing new mobility solutions. "We are taking care and taking advantage from the railway system," Vallelonga states, explaining plans to add new train stops, especially in the north, to support future neighborhood development.
Opportunities of the railway network:
Possibility to consolidate and enhance existing substantial railway network to optimize train usage for both freight and passenger transportation
Presence of two main train stations in the city centre which offer an excellent opportunity to enhance urban transportation and mobility, and to establish them as vital mobility hubs for the city
Existing railway line extends close to the airport, offering a close connection
Proposed long-term railway strategy
A notable feature of the plan is the creation of four major mobility hubs throughout the city, with two strategically located at existing train stations. These hubs will serve as multimodal transfer points, facilitating seamless connections between different transportation modes. Additional district-level mobility hubs will ensure accessibility across all neighborhoods.
The plan also introduces water transport as part of the city-wide system, providing citizens with diverse commuting options. This multi-modal approach, combined with a comprehensive feeder system for last-mile connections, aims to make public transport the backbone of urban mobility – building upon its current 51% share of daily commutes.
The 15-Minute City: Promoting Proximity and Community
At the heart of Mykolaiv's mobility transformation is the concept of the 15-minute city, where essential services are accessible within a short walk or bike ride. "Building a proximity city means promoting a renewed sensibility to the value of time," explains Vallelonga. The masterplan aims to create a network of interconnected neighborhoods where daily necessities - from groceries and healthcare to education and recreation - are within easy reach of all residents.
This approach fundamentally reshapes how public space is used in Mykolaiv. The plan identifies key areas where current car-dominated spaces can be transformed into vibrant community zones. Wide roads will be redesigned with dedicated cycling lanes, expanded sidewalks, and new pedestrian crossings. Tree-lined streets and small public squares will create comfortable environments for walking and social interaction.
The vision extends beyond transportation to encompass comprehensive community building. By distributing services more evenly across neighborhoods, the plan promotes local economic development while reducing unnecessary travel. This polycentric approach is particularly important for Mykolaiv's reconstruction, as it helps create resilient communities that can thrive independently while remaining connected to the wider city.
Proposed cycling network
The plan prioritizes universal accessibility, incorporating design features that make mobility easier for elderly residents, children, and people with disabilities. This includes level walking surfaces, adequate street lighting, frequent rest areas, and clear wayfinding systems. The transformation of parking facilities plays a crucial role in this vision - as car dependency decreases, these spaces will be repurposed into community facilities, green areas, and service centers that enhance neighborhood life.
Looking Ahead: A City for People
The mobility masterplan represents more than just transportation infrastructure – it is about creating a more livable city that prioritizes its residents. By implementing integrated multi-modal transport corridors that consider population density, land use patterns, and new development proposals, the plan aims to foster a stronger sense of community and improve quality of life. Part of this is to rearrange existing lanes to allow for more pedestrian and cyclist movement and safety.
An example of a proposed lane rearrangement
“We have to create enjoyable space for people. We have to create a fully connected cycle network, redesign the geometry of the street to facilitate pedestrian crossing. We have to make the roads and the city in general much safer for people.”
As Mykolaiv moves forward with its reconstruction, this flexible, people-centered approach to mobility will play a crucial role in shaping the city's future. Through the UN4UkrainianCities project, UNECE continues to work closely with local authorities and international experts to refine and implement these strategies, ensuring that the transportation system can evolve alongside the city, supporting its recovery and long-term sustainable development.