From 23rd to 25th July, the CYCLE UP! project team met with decision-makers, urban planners, cycling coordinators and cultural workers from all over the participating countries in Tartu, the European capital of culture 2024, for the CYCLE UP! midpoint workshop.

Over the two and a half days, we had a unique opportunity to come together and exchange ideas, examples of best practice and inspire each other with an engaged discussion on how art can be used to bring more bikes into the streets and change the use of the public space in our cities.

The workshop kicked off with a delightful dinner on the Jõmmu barge, taking the participants on a ride along the Emajogi river and allowing them to connect while admiring Tartu's picturesque river views.

The following days were packed with engaging presentations, interactive discussions, and thought-provoking case studies. Raimond Tamm, Tartu's Vice Mayor, set the stage by highlighting the city's cycling initiatives and infrastructure developments. Inspiring initiatives were presented by the organisers of the car-free avenue in Tartu as well as by the artist-in-residence Jana de Troyer, who was halfway through her stay in Tartu. The participating decision-makers from Poland, Czechia and Slovakia also contributed with examples from their countries.

To truly use this unique personal gathering, we had a launch of the first issue of the Citizen Magazine, which was put together by the project partner PUNKT on the theme of cycling in the city and is one of the project deliverables.

Participants embarked on an insightful bike tour, experiencing Tartu's cycling infrastructure firsthand. This hands-on exploration fueled further discussions on how to make cities more accessible and enjoyable for cyclists.

The workshop also addressed the challenges and opportunities in creating cycling cities. From community involvement to infrastructure development, funding, policy, and education, participants brainstormed innovative solutions to promote cycling as a viable transportation option. The workshop fostered a collaborative atmosphere, encouraging participants to share their experiences and learn from each other.

The CYCLE UP! project emerged as a catalyst for change, empowering organisations to advocate for cycling and bridge the gap between art, culture, and urban planning.
The Tartu workshop was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of collaboration and creative thinking in shaping the future of cycling cities. CYCLE UP! project will continue to inspire and empower communities to embrace cycling as a sustainable and enjoyable way of life.