New Metropolitan Attica S.A. undertakes the study entitled: "Design Guidelines and Methodology Document for the Strategic Development of Cycling Infrastructure along Iera Odos".

Integrating cycling into the daily life of the city requires comprehensive planning. It is, however, a relatively straightforward solution that significantly contributes to alleviating traffic congestion, reducing pollution and noise and lowering the cost of transportation for the citizens of Attica.

The Regional Development Organization of Attica is implementing the project entitled "Design Guidelines and Methodology Document for the Strategic Development of Cycling Infrastructure along Iera Odos". The aim of the project is to carry out a planning and methodological study for the strategic development of cycling infrastructure along Iera Odos, a route that traverses the municipalities of Athens, Aigaleo and Haidari, starting at the junction of Peiraios and Panagi Tsaldari Street and ending at Athinon Avenue.

Within the scope of the project, New Metropolitan Attica will undertake:

• Analysis of the existing situation and development of supporting studies, including topographic surveying and the collection of current traffic data.
• Submission of proposals and guideline studies, including a Traffic Study, Signage and Safety Study, Hydraulic Study and Electrical Engineering Study.

The project will be implemented in two stages: In the first stage, supporting studies will be carried out (including analysis of the existing conditions, detailed topographic mapping along the entire length of Iera Odos and collection of traffic data), in order to develop the optimal traffic proposal. In the second stage, guideline studies will be developed to justify the traffic proposals on topographic diagrams, propose the necessary works for stormwater collection and drainage, suggest the required electrical networks, and select appropriate lighting equipment.

Current Situation in Greece

One of the main challenges faced by Greek urban centers is the lack of space, high levels of often disorderly traffic flow, pollution, noise, and overall congestion. The use of bicycles as a daily means of getting around the town and/or delivering goods helps achieve multiple objectives, such as reducing energy consumption, lowering urban noise and pollution, improving the urban microclimate, increasing road safety, safeguarding public health and enhancing the urban and peri-urban environment through sustainable practices.

Nevertheless, the rate of bicycle use in Greece remains markedly low. A major deterrent is the perception that cycling is not a safe mode of transport. Cycling infrastructure—particularly designated bike lanes—can offer the safety assurances required to promote cycling as a viable urban mobility option.