Mexican capital recognised for its sustainable transport makeover

Mexico City’s dramatic transformation of its transport network has seen it recognised with the 2013 Sustainable Transport Award by a panel of global experts.

The award, which was handed out by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP), rewards the Mexican capital over its improved bus rapid transit (BRT) system and its rejuvenated cycling, walking and parking infrastructure.

“Mexico City was like a patient sick with heart disease, its streets were some of the most congested in the world”, said Walter Hook, CEO of ITDP.

“In the last year, Mexico City extended its great Metrobus BRT system straight through the narrow congested streets of its spectacular historical core, rebuilt public parks and plazas, expanded bike sharing and bike lanes, and pedestrianised streets.

“With the blood flowing again, Mexico City’s urban core has been transformed from a forgotten, crime-ridden neighbourhood into a vital part of Mexico City’s future.”

Previous winners of the award, which was founded in 2005, include Medellin, Colombia (2012); San Francisco, US (2011) and Guangzhou, China (2010). In 2008, London shared the accolade with Paris.

Bremen, Germany; Lviv, Ukraine; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Rosario, Argentina were among the other candidates for the 2013 edition, only to be beaten at the finish line by Mexico City, which organisers hope will now go on to inspire other places to develop sustainable transport networks.

“Sustainable transport systems go hand-in-hand with low emissions development and liveable cities”, said Sophie Punte, executive director of Clear Air Asia.

“Mexico City’s success has proven that developing cities can achieve this, and we expect many Asian cities to follow suit.”

Further reading:

London, Brighton and Nottingham top sustainable transport ranking

Sustainable transport to get $175 billion boost

Sustainable cities: a low-carbon opportunity not to be missed

Smart grids: supporting efficient, affordable, sustainable and secure energy