VIRTUAL: Livable Cities – New York

Abstract

In recent years, the world’s population has increasingly concentrated in urban areas, a trend that will accelerate in the coming years. Projections suggest that by 2050, urbanization combined with global population growth could add 2.5 billion people to urban areas. This growth creates new needs, prompting the concept of Smart Cities, which prioritize efficient resource use through innovation and technology, citizen participation through e-participation and e-governance, and improved quality of life for citizens. The concept of Smart Cities is becoming increasingly popular among political decision-makers at the city level, as it offers pragmatic and practical solutions to city challenges. In Pristina, the capital city of Kosovo, public transport is burdened by heavy traffic on main roads, leading to congestion and long waits throughout the day. To address these issues, Pristina approved the Mobility Plan in 2019, which focuses on improving the proper functioning of urban traffic. This paper aims to explore the transportation, public space, and walkability challenges in Pristina, and the measures being taken to address them. The current situation and steps Pristina plans to take in the next few years will also be discussed. By addressing mobility challenges, Pristina hopes to improve the quality of life for its citizens and create a more efficient and sustainable urban environment.