Technology on Two Feet

Imagine a city where walking and cycling aren’t just afterthoughts, but the primary modes of transport. Picture streets filled with people gliding on bikes, strolling in lush pedestrian zones, and crossing smart intersections that cater to them, not just cars. As dreamy as this sounds, it’s becoming a reality in many forward-thinking cities, thanks to the marriage of non-motorized transport (NMT) and technology.

For too long, urban planning has revolved around motorized vehicles, resulting in congested, polluted, and sometimes downright chaotic cities. But as the world grapples with climate change and growing urban populations, a new transportation revolution is underway—and it’s a quiet one, powered by footsteps and bike pedals. Here’s how technology is making that possible, and how it could change the way we move through our cities.

Tech-Driven Urban Planning

Cities are complex ecosystems, and planning for non-motorized transport isn't as simple as just painting some bike lanes or widening sidewalks. This is where big data and technology swoop in like urban superheroes.

Urban planners now use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and other tech tools to gather information on how people move around cities. Imagine being able to map out the most popular walking and cycling routes by analyzing millions of data points from GPS, mobile apps, and even fitness trackers. With this data, planners can pinpoint the best places to install new bike lanes, pedestrian zones, and crosswalks that are actually useful.

In cities like London and New York, this data-driven approach has already made a huge difference. For instance, pop-up bike lanes were quickly installed during the pandemic based on real-time data about where people were cycling. These aren’t just random strips of pavement—they’re strategic, well-planned paths designed to optimize traffic flow and make cycling irresistible.

Smart Traffic Lights

We’ve all been there—standing at a red light, waiting for what feels like an eternity while cars zoom by, even when no one’s using the road. But with technological advancements like smart traffic lights, the secret sauce that can make walking and cycling a breeze.

In the past, traffic lights were programmed with cars in mind, but modern technology is changing that. By using sensors, cameras, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), cities can create traffic systems that prioritize pedestrians and cyclists. When sensors detect bikes or people at an intersection, the traffic light changes more quickly, allowing for a smoother, faster journey on foot or by pedal.

Take Utrecht in the Netherlands, where smart traffic systems give cyclists a head start at intersections, keeping the flow moving without unnecessary stops. It’s like giving bikes their own VIP lane through the city. Imagine the relief of not having to slam on your brakes every few blocks or standing in the sun waiting for a green light that feels like it will never come.

City Navigation

Let’s be honest: one of the biggest reasons people stick to cars is convenience. We know where the roads go, we have GPS, and it’s easy to get from point A to point B. But technology is leveling the playing field for non-motorized transport too.

Mapping apps like Google Maps and Citymapper have begun adding robust cycling and walking routes to their platforms. These routes don’t just tell you how to get there—they guide you to bike-friendly streets, show you which sidewalks are the safest, and even help you avoid steep hills that’ll leave you winded before you arrive.

For pedestrians, apps using augmented reality (AR) are starting to offer real-time, visual directions to get around the city. It’s like having a personal guide in your pocket, showing you the best paths and avoiding potential hazards along the way. You no longer have to worry about wandering down streets with no sidewalks or getting stuck in a car-dominated zone.

Urban Climate Resilience

The beauty of integrating technology into non-motorized transport goes beyond just getting people to their destinations—it’s about transforming the way cities look, feel, and function. As more people ditch cars in favor of walking or cycling, cities can reclaim public spaces that were once dominated by vehicles.

Think of it this way: less traffic means more room for parks, wider sidewalks, pedestrian plazas, and even outdoor cafes. Imagine walking through a city where the air is fresher, streets are quieter, and you feel safe and comfortable walking or cycling through vibrant, green spaces. Technology makes it possible to design these kinds of cities with precision and efficiency, ensuring that every square inch of urban space is used thoughtfully and sustainable.

Safety

Safety is often the biggest barrier to adopting non-motorized transport, but technology is rapidly turning this around. High-tech sensors, cameras, and even wearable devices can help create safer environments for cyclists and pedestrians. Smart helmets with sensors, for example, can automatically alert emergency services if you’re in an accident. And cities are using AI to identify high-risk areas for cyclists and pedestrians, allowing them to address these hazards before accidents happen.

In Los Angeles, a network of cameras monitors bike lanes to ensure they’re clear and safe. In Copenhagen, AI helps predict areas where cyclists are likely to face issues like collisions or crowded paths, allowing the city to address these problems in real-time. It’s like having a protective bubble around you, powered by data.

The Future is Here: What’s Next for NMT and Technology?

As we move further into the 21st century, the integration of technology and non-motorized transport will continue to evolve. Imagine smart streets that change based on the time of day, giving more space to cyclists during rush hour or opening up pedestrian zones in the evenings. Picture real-time updates on your phone telling you where to find the safest walking routes or which bike lanes are experiencing heavy traffic.

The possibilities are endless—and exciting. By embracing the intersection of NMT and technology, we can create cities that are cleaner, greener, and infinitely more enjoyable to live in. So, the next time you think about hopping in the car for a short trip, consider the smarter, tech-powered alternatives that could make walking or cycling a more appealing, convenient, and fun way to get around.

In this new age of urban mobility, the wheels of change are spinning—one pedal at a time.