Turku champions sustainable urban mobility through SCALE-UP project

In May, the City of Turku completed its participation in the EU-funded SCALE-UP project, which sought to enhance user-centric and sustainable urban mobility services through ten targeted actions. 

A new mobility map helps residents find transportation services in the city and features real-time street maintenance updates to make planning journeys easier. Other specific actions include new luggage lockers at the bus station, Finland’s first bicycle accessory vending machine, and a shared cargo bike scheme.

A key aim of the project was to support a shift towards sustainable travel behaviour through practical interventions. Residents could borrow public transport cards from libraries, and cycling agents worked to assess and improve cycling conditions. Children also benefited from bike skills tracks and group bikes designed for daycare and school outings.

These efforts encouraged active travel and made it easier to switch between transport modes - a key step towards a more integrated transport network.

To support year-round activity, the project also tested seasonal innovations, such as winter squares and pedestrian-friendly winter streets.

Turku took part in the project alongside Antwerp and Madrid, demonstrating the value of international cooperation in developing sustainable and connected transport systems. Local implementation was supported by regional partners, including Turku University of Applied Sciences and Vinka Oy, laying a solid foundation for future mobility initiatives.

Author: Carla Giaume

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.