Limassol is a city that is constantly being developed and upgraded. With a view to reducing pollutants, ensuring better air quality, reducing traffic congestion and resulting noise pollution, Limassol is launching a series of measures to improve public transport.

From November 2017, Limassol, together with three Greek cities, Rhodes, Ermoupolis (Syros) and Thira (Santorini), participates in the project Eu-Kinisi (Interreg V-A, Greece – Cyprus). The project provides for the design and implementation of actions aimed at implementing smart, sustainable and cost-effective public transport solutions that are expected to significantly improve urban accessibility and reduce pollution and energy consumption.

As part of the project, the Limassol Tourist Development and Promotion Co Ltd (LTC) has already proceeded with the installation of a telematics system at 15 city bus stops and in 15 buses. The public information pillars provide information regarding buses that serve the stop, waiting times and useful tourist information. Buses screens inform about the next stop, the overall route, landmarks and events in the area. The innovation of the system is based on the combination of information on transport and tourism, which enriches the tourist experience of each visitor.

The telematics system is in a pilot phase and its implementation is expected to be completed by September 2019. In addition to the equipment provided by the Eu-kinisis, the Limassol Tourism Board has secured the extension of the system to 25 more points and 25 buses through the European Project Civitas Destinations (Horizon 2020).

Recognizing the need to use technology to inform the public, LTC also upgrades the ‘Mobility Limassol’ application with real-time information on public transport. In this way the Eu-kinisi connects the telematics system directly with the user, making the service even more attractive. Besides the infrastructure installed, LTC is also carrying out communication campaigns to raise awareness among citizens and visitors and promote the use of public transport.

Based on the study of the current situation regarding urban mobility by the Frederick Research Center, which is also a partner in the project, all the problems that are currently an inhibiting factor for integrating the principles of sustainable urban mobility into small towns have been identified. The study has determined specific features and weaknesses such as traffic load seasonality, reduced access to technology, lack of balanced environmental and economic growth, and seasonal overcapacity in urban areas.

Through the Eu-kinisi project, systems and technologies are implemented to mitigate the negative impacts of identified weaknesses to ensure improved, more attractive and environmentally friendly transport.