Module 4: Experimenting with potential mobility solutions to promote active modes

This module explores how small-scale experiments can be a powerful tool in mobility planning to promote active modes like walking and cycling. Instead of jumping straight into large investments, participants will discover the strategic value of testing ideas first – learning what works, what doesn’t, and why. The module introduces the step-by-step manual for experimenting with active mobility measures, guiding through the different stages of a pilot planning process with key questions to reflect upon. Through practical case examples from cities, participants will see a variety of pilot approaches and equal number of challenges—from infrastructure trials to restricting car access and engaging citizens.

What will you learn?

👉 By the end of the module, participants will understand how to link small-scale testing to the broader planning process, how to plan each phase effectively, and even how to learn from unsuccessful pilots. This module is especially valuable for anyone considering or preparing to test active mobility solutions on a smaller scale.

Dates

Webinar: 22.04.2026, 09:00 CEST

09:00–09:10 (CEST) Welcome & Framing: Kick off with a warm welcome and a brief overview of the webinar goals. Highlight the power of small-scale active mobility pilots in transforming urban mobility. Ira Sibelius, Union of the Baltic Cities Sustainable Cities Commission/City of Turku
09:10–09:35 Why Small-Scale Matters: From Tactical Actions to Policy Change Presentation on the strategic value of pilot projects in mobility planning and how temporary interventions for active mobility can influence long-term policy and behaviour. TBC
09:35–10:05 Case Studies: Pilots in Action / Real-life examples: Presentations from cities that have implemented small-scale active mobility pilots. TBC
10:05-10:25 From Idea to evaluation – how to experiment? Walkthrough of practical tools and templates for planning, monitoring, and scaling up pilots. Ira Sibelius & Adham Maharramli, Union of the Baltic Cities Sustainable Cities Commission/City of Turku
10:25-10:30 Wrap up and next steps

Workshop: 29.04.2026, 09:00 CEST

09:00–09:10 (CEST) Welcome & Framing: Icebreaker and overview of workshop goals. Brief intro to the model for experimenting with active mobility measures. Ira Sibelius, Union of the Baltic Cities Sustainable Cities Commission/City of Turku
09:10–09:25 How to pilot on a small scale? Experiences from a City: Presentation on small-scale experimenting – what, why, and how? TBC
09:25–09:40 Challenge Briefing: Participants are introduced to realistic challenges based on real-life cases from 3 cities. Ira Sibelius & Adham Maharramli, Union of the Baltic Cities Sustainable Cities Commission/City of Turku
09:40–10:20 Group work: Challenge Mapping + Solution Sprint
10:20-10:30 Break
10:30-11:50 Sharing & Reflections: Each group presents their work.
10:50–11:25 City Case Presentations: Cities present their real-life solutions & approach to the challenges of the workshop
11:25–11:30 Wrap-Up & Next Steps

The Baltic Sea Region
Competence Centre on SUMP