rban micromobility development and conflict over shared space

Abstract

Increasing urbanization and the growing population of large cities are causing more and more problems related to traffic (traffic jams, accidents, lack of parking spaces, etc.) and environmental degradation. For many cities around the world, micromobility (lightweight vehicles powered by electricity or the power of one’s own muscles, such as bicycles or scooters) is becoming a recipe for the problems of first and last miles, traffic jams and gas emissions. These devices are becoming increasingly popular and widely available, especially as part of the fast-growing sharing economy. However, their emergence in public spaces is also causing problems and challenges for local communities and authorities. Inadequate urban infrastructure, combined with weak enforcement of regulations, causes users of micromobile vehicles to drive into public spaces, overcrowding them and causing serious safety concerns for both themselves and pedestrians. The main purpose of the article is to answer the question of how and to what extent the development of micromobility in cities affects the health and safety of people in public spaces, and whether it contributes to generating conflicts over this space. The basis for the analysis is the author’s pilot study conducted among pedestrians and users of micromobility devices in Gdansk, Warsaw and Berlin.