eprintid: 4776
rev_number: 4
eprint_status: archive
userid: 1
dir: disk0/00/00/47/76
datestamp: 2024-10-08 09:20:25
lastmod: 2024-10-08 09:20:25
status_changed: 2024-10-08 09:20:25
type: thesis
metadata_visibility: show
sword_depositor: 1
creators_name: Willemsen, Wouter
creators_id: S2996421
creators_email: hwwillemsen@live.nl
title: Bike-sharing governance in rural areas
ispublished: unpub
full_text_status: public
abstract: In rural areas, the public transport systems face increasing pressure to maintain accessibility and
meet the needs of local populations. While urban areas have embraced innovative
transportation modes, such as bike-sharing, rural areas have generally lagged behind in
adopting these solutions. This research explores the potential of bike-sharing as a viable
transport option for rural regions, examining its success in urban environments and its
applicability to rural settings.
This study focuses on the governance of bike-sharing programs within rural municipalities in
the Dutch provinces of Groningen and Drenthe. It aims to answer the research question: How
do municipalities govern bike-sharing in rural areas in the Netherlands, and what lessons can be
drawn for future projects? Through interviews with policymakers, this research provides insights
into the challenges and strategies associated with implementing bike-sharing in rural contexts.
The key findings of this research show how bike-sharing systems are governed and developed in
rural areas by municipalities. The study reveals that while bike-sharing in these regions is still in
the exploratory phase, municipalities recognize its potential to address accessibility issues. Key
barriers to bike-sharing in rural areas include low population density, financial sustainability,
existing bike ownership, and unfamiliarity with the concept. However, successful examples like
the OVfiets and Steenwijkerland networks demonstrate that strategic placement and broad user
appeal can enhance the viability of these systems. This can include strategic placement near
touristic destinations to increase the group of potential users
For effective implementation, key conditions include adequate financial support, local
policymaker ambition, network capacity, and safe cycling infrastructure. Collaboration among
municipalities, provinces, and private stakeholders is essential for overcoming challenges and
integrating bike-sharing into broader rural mobility strategies.
date: 2024
pages: 50
thesis_type: master
degree_programme: SP
tutors_name: Arts, E.J.M.M.
tutors_name: Rongen, T.O.
tutors_organization: Fac. Ruimtelijke wetenschappen, Basiseenheid Planologie
tutors_organization: Fac. Ruimtelijke wetenschappen, Basiseenheid Economische Geografie
tutors_email: Jos.Arts@rug.nl
tutors_email: t.o.rongen@rug.nl
security: public
keywords_local: Bike-sharing
keywords_local: Rural mobility
keywords_local: Accessibility
keywords_local: Governance
keywords_local: Cycling
keywords_local: Mobility Policy
language_iso: en
date_issued: 2024-10-08
citation:   Willemsen, Wouter  (2024) Bike-sharing governance in rural areas.  Master thesis.   
document_url: https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/4776/1/Bike-Sharing-Governance-in-Rural-AreasWouter-Willemsenfinal-version.pdf