VIRTUAL Lisbon Livable Cities

Abstract

Over the last decades, the application of internet-based information and communication technologies (ICTs) has contributed to the creation of ‘smarter’ urban spaces in which real-time data exchange can enhance citizens’ daily routine. This has led to the creation of a variety of services, which add an invisible layer of interaction with the tangible dimensions of reality. This digitally enhanced society multiplies the opportunities to sense and manipulate urban spaces towards more liveable and sustainable cities. However, criticalities persist, leading to divides and pollution, which are clearly visible in the field of transport, where congestion and delays generate stress on both travellers and transport infrastructure. A more efficient, accessible, and circular approach to urban mobility is required in the implementation of public and shared services as an alternative to privately-owned ones. Further to this, the growth in delivery services is adding complexity to the urban mobility scenario, and while local administrations collaborate with private companies to address delivery issues and improve citizens’ commutes at different levels, a one-size-fits-all approach to a variety of context-specific factors may hinder the success of mobility plans and schemes. The proposed paper intends to investigate pathways to participatory design approach in the creation of collaborative networks around the topics of multi-modal and last-mile mobility, freight transport, and social policies within the urban context. The argument is that by involving local stakeholders – e.g. communities, administrations, service providers, and experts – in the early stages of research and planning, it would be possible to conceive efficient and strategic micromobility proposals, which challenge homogenisation tendencies, address sustainability, improve the efficiency of services, and enhance the liveability of specific metropolitan areas in the foreseeable future.