Joint Letter: Call for Prioritisation of Urban and Regional Mobility Investment in Upcoming STIP
Introduction
In a joint letter to the EU institutions, leading local and regional governments and transport networks — including POLIS, ICLEI Europe, Eurocities, European Metropolitan Transport Authorities (EMTA), European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF), UITP, and EIT Urban Mobility— have welcomed DG MOVE’s initiative to launch the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP).
The Commission’s STIP aims to boost Europe’s competitiveness by linking sustainability with economic resilience.
It focuses on renewable fuels, recharging infrastructure, and rail digitalisation but must also address urban and regional mobility to fully achieve EU goals on sustainability, equity, and competitiveness
Sustainable urban mobility requires €1.5 trillion by 2050, with €500 billion for implementation.
Every euro invested in public transport generates €6.50 in regional benefits, and a full modal shift could save individuals up to €15,000 by 2050. STIP can drive this investment.
From 2027, urban nodes under the TEN-T framework will adopt Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) covering entire functional areas, promoting high-capacity, inclusive transport solutions.
Investing in sustainable urban mobility creates jobs, boosts local economies, and reduces pollution, congestion, and health costs.
Public transport and shared mobility are key to climate goals and can position cities as innovation hubs, supporting EU industries, SMEs, and start-ups.
To maximise the STIP’s impact on European competitiveness, the letter presents the following key recommendations:
- Clearly define the urban mobility scope of STIP
- Promote competitiveness through urban mobility investments
- Establish frameworks to enable investment and implementation
- Link future MFF instruments to STIP urban mobility priorities
The STIP represents a timely and strategic opportunity to accelerate sustainable transport solutions across Europe’s urban nodes.
With complementary strategies, this can be a powerful instrument to support cities and regions, paving the way to achieve meaningful and lasting change.
