Developing a Mobility Master Plan for Manizales, Colombia

Manizales is a midsize city that has experienced a vehicle growth of 143% in the last ten years, according to a study conducted by Steer based on information from the “Secretaría de tránsito de Manizales”. In addition, the city has a steep topography and a close connection with the nearby municipalities. Thus, the Municipality decided to develop a Mobility Master Plan to define and aim strategies until 2032 that benefits the quality of life of its citizens.

Steer conducted household surveys, intercept surveys, stated preference surveys, traffic count, among other field activities to characterize and analyse the mobility of Manizales. Based on the identified problematic and the development of a transport model, Steer advised the Municipality to define a vision of the city and identify the strategies and projects that resolve the problematic. The urban development and the investment capacity were considered in order to have a sustainable Master Plan. In addition, Steer developed a prefeasibility study of two cable cars that will complement the current cable car network.

This study delivers to the Municipality a tool for decisions that takes the vision of the city and defines the long-term mobility goals and strategies. The plan presents strategies and projects that will assure:

1. A city connected with the region and the country
2. A healthy and a sustainable mobility
3. An efficient, accessible and affordable public transportation system
4. An organized, free-flowing and safe mobility
5. A mobility system linked to the territory
6. A modern and smart city